Graphic Version

Homeowner

RDL's role within the housebuilding industry is to provide separating wall and floor designs for use in new attached homes as a means of meeting Requirement E1 of the Building Regulations. This Requirement deals with the transmission of sound from other parts of the building and adjacent buildings.

In 2002, prior to the introduction of changes to Requirement E1 of the Building Regulations affecting sound insulation of new dwellings and the establishment of RDL, the Government announced a broad target of 90% compliance with the new performance standards within 10 years.

Information contained in the same consultation paper suggested that compliance with 'old' regulations was low. 40% of separating floors did not meet the requirements and 25% of separating walls did not achieve the standards described in the former Part E.

The target for RDL, when the RD scheme was approved, in 2004 (and indeed for all other users of the Regulations), was to achieve new, higher technical standards and to significantly improve compliance rates.

Robust Detail designs will meet or exceed Requirement E1 provided that they have been built properly in accordance with the specification. This performance is verified by RDL's ongoing sample testing programme, which has shown levels of acoustic performance well in excess of the 90% compliance level considered in the consultation document. Unlike building control authorities, RDL would not have any legal enforcement powers in the event that a non-compliance occurred.

Should you be a homeowner of a new home and be disappointed with the level of sound insulation between yourself and your neighbour RDL would recommend that you address your concerns directly with the builder. It is the builder's responsibility to ensure that the property meets the requirements set out in the Building Regulations, which include legislation relating to sound insulation.

You may also wish to contact the Building Control Body responsible for the site as we understand that the Building Control Body has a duty to take reasonable measures to satisfy itself that the builder has met the required standards.

In addition, it would be advisable to check whether your home is covered by a new homes warranty from an organisation such as NHBC or Zurich Building Guarantees. If so, we recommend that you contact the warranty provider, as they may be able to assist.

If you have bought a new home and are dissatisfied with the sound insulation of your separating walls or floors, RDL would be pleased to offer you advice about these various courses of action.