What does Part E cover?
On 1st July 2003, the new Approved Document E of the Building Regulations came into force in England and Wales. It is designed to meet demands for improved acoustic insulation and combat the problems of noise pollution from neighbours. These new regulations, unlike previous requirements, apply to both new build and refurbishment or conversion projects on all types of dwellings including, flats and apartments, semi detached and terraced housing, hotels, hostels, nursing homes and student accommodation. It applies to the separating walls, floors and ceilings between different dwellings only and not to those within the same dwelling. One of the main differences of the new regulations is how airborne performance is now measured. A spectrum adaptation term (Ctr) is now applied, which puts a much greater emphasis on low frequency sound (100Hz to 315Hz). These low frequencies are the cause of much modern noise pollution but are also among the most difficult to combat.
