Building Regulations Part E for Noise: A Simple Guide

Designing buildings that are comfortable, private, and compliant with the law means paying close attention to sound. Noise control isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a legal requirement in many types of buildings. In the UK, this is largely governed by Building Regulations Part E, which sets the standards for sound insulation between and within dwellings. 

If you’re an architect, developer, contractor, or homeowner planning a new build or refurbishment, this simple guide will help you understand what Part E covers, why it matters, and how to stay compliant. 

What is Part E?

Approved Document E (ADE), commonly referred to as Part E, is part of the Building Regulations for England & Wales. 

Its main purpose is to limit the transmission of sound between: 

  • Separate dwellings (e.g., flats, terraced or semi-detached houses) 
  • Rooms within residential buildings (e.g., bathrooms, bedrooms, living rooms) 
  • Certain commercial-to-residential situations (e.g., flats above shops) 

Part E applies to: 

  • New builds 
  • Conversions/change of use (e.g., office to residential) 
  • Some refurbishment projects

What Types of Noise Does Part E Cover?

Part E regulates two key types of sound: 

  1. Airborne Noise

This is sound that travels through the air, such as: 

  • Talking 
  • Music 
  • TVs 
  • Traffic 

In separating walls and floors, the regulations require minimum airborne sound insulation levels to prevent nuisance between properties. 

  1. Impact Noise

This is sound caused by direct contact, such as: 

  • Footsteps 
  • Dropped objects 
  • Furniture movement 

Building Regulations Part E specifies maximum impact noise levels for separating floors. 

Image of Tower Blocks

Key Requirements for Compliance

While exact performance values depend on building type, the general requirements include: 

For New Builds 

  • Walls and floors must achieve higher sound insulation values because they’re built from scratch and easier to control acoustically. 

For Conversions 

  • Performance standards are slightly lower, acknowledging the constraints of existing structures. 

Acoustic Testing 

Most projects require pre-completion sound testing (PCST) to demonstrate compliance, including both airborne sound insulation tests and impact sound insulation tests. 

A pass certificate is normally needed before sign-off. 

Some systems (e.g., certain accredited details) may allow compliance without testing, but this depends on the project and design approach. 

Common Issues That Lead to Failure

Even with good design intentions, many builds fail sound tests due to simple mistakes: 

  • Missing insulation within walls or floors 
  • Poor workmanship (gaps, cracks, incorrectly fitted boards) 
  • Incorrect material combinations 
  • Flanking transmission (sound travelling around, not through, a separating element) 
  • Services or sockets penetrating acoustic layers 

Acoustic consultancy during the design and construction stage helps catch these problems early saving time, money, and rework. 

Why Part E Matters

Good acoustic design isn’t just about ticking a regulatory box. It improves: 

  • Privacy between neighbours 
  • Comfort and wellbeing 
  • Property value 
  • Occupant satisfaction 

With urban density increasing and more homes being built in mixed-use areas, sound control is more important than ever. 

How an Acoustic Consultant Can Help

Meeting the Building Regulations Part E requirements involves more than just picking the right materials. An experienced consultant will: 

  • Provide early-stage design advice 
  • Recommend robust wall and floor constructions 
  • Review drawings and details 
  • Conduct on-site inspections 
  • Carry out acoustic testing 
  • Offer solutions if a test fails 

This proactive support ensures smoother projects, reliable compliance, and higher-quality homes. 

Final Thoughts

Building Regulations Part E is a vital part of building design, ensuring that homes offer a comfortable and private living environment. Understanding the basics and getting the right professional support can make the difference between a smooth sign-off and costly remedial work. 

If you’re planning a build, conversion, or refurbishment and want to ensure acoustic compliance, our team can help with design advice, site inspections, and Part E testing. 

Speak to our Acoustic Consultants