Air permeability testing in London and surrounding counties
An air leakage test is a test to determine the level of uncontrolled air flow through gaps or cracks in the fabric of a building. The result of the air leakage test is expressed as a quantity of air leakage (m3 per hour) per square metre of building envelope.
Domestic
Non-domestic
An air permeability test may also be required for a builders smoke shaft, room integrity testing, or underfloor air distribution (UFAD) installations.
How much does an air permeability test cost?
The cost of an air permeability test varies based on the size of the development, the location of the development and the size and type of each building requiring a test. We are able to offer large discounts for developments where multiple plots can be tested on a single visit. We can also offer discounts when we are engaged to provide multiple services on the same project, for example when we carry out extractor fan flow rate testing or sound insulation testing at the same time as the air leakage test (see "other relevant services" below).
Please contact us for a quote. We aim to respond to all enquiries within one working day.
What happens in the event of a fail?
The majority of buildings tested achieve a first time pass. However, should your building not achieve a first time pass we shall advise you of all air leakage hot-spots and appropriate remedial work. If it is possible for the remedial work to be carried out at once we shall allow a reasonable amount of time for the works to be complete and then re-test at no extra charge. If it is not practical to carry out the remedial work on that day we will arrange for one of our air test engineers to attend site again on another day once the works are complete.
For added piece of mind, we can provide design reviews prior to construction commencing, and support and advice thoughout the build.
Prior to attending site we shall require the following information
- Floor plans and section drawings;
- Design-stage SAP / SBEM reports for each building to be tested; and
- Contact details for the site manager.
How to improve a buildings air tightness
- Refer to the Communities and Local Government accredited construction details.
- Seal gaps around pipes and cables where these pass through walls, ceilings and floors.
- Make sure all mastic and caulking has been applied.
- With drylining, if the plasterboard sheets have not been sealed at the junctions with the ceiling and floor (in addition to sheet to sheet) air can leak through the gaps.
- Apply draught proofing to gaps around doors and windows.
- Ensure any loft hatches fit into their apertures and apply draught stripping between the hatch and frame.
- Repair damage to mortar joints and fill any holes in the external walls.
- Maintain a good seal around boiler flue pipes where they pass through the external wall or ceiling.
Why choose Achieve Green?
We are members of the Air Tightness Measurement Association, meaning our test certificates will be recognised for Building Regulation sign-off.
Our experienced air test engineers have an extensive track history, testing all varieties of buildings.
Our test engineers will be on hand to answer any questions and provide free advice and support throughout the construction process.
We fit around you, attending site at a time that is convenient and ensuring test certificates are ready for issue within 24 hours.
All of our test engineers are CSCS certified.
By using an ISO 9001 accredited organisation such as ours you can be confident in receiving a consistently high quality of service.
COMPETITIVE
Fast and accurate assessments at a competitive price.
EXPERIENCED
Comprehensive advice and support to ensure you arrive at the most economic and feasible solution to achieve compliance.
QUALIFIED
You can take comfort that the certificates we provide will be accepted as evidence for Building Regulations sign-off.
VALUE
Best quality advice, at a price that offers real value for money.
Testimonials
We are an RIBA Chartered Architectural Practice based on the South Coast, and have used the services of the Achieve Green team in Tunbridge Wells on countless projects over many years, mainly for the preparation of SAP calculations but also energy statements and air pressure testing across a broad range of projects. They have offered us invaluable practical advice on more complex projects to ensure compliance with the ever evolving statutory standards and we have always found them to provide a prompt, efficient, friendly and cost effective service and would not hesitate to recommend them.
Lightbox Architecture Limited
We have found the Achieve Green team to be highly experienced, specialised and competent. Advice is constructive and their approach to projects is strategic, ensuring the most effective solutions are taken forward. The team has a comprehensive understanding of planning requirements and appreciates how these translate into technical and on-site delivery. We highly recommend the team and look forward to working with them on forthcoming projects.
Kitewood Estates Ltd
As a business we have been involved with Achieve Green for a number of years. Their proactive involvement in our projects from design through to completion has enabled us to continually improve the energy efficiency of all our homes. The prompt and efficient service has meant they have become an integral part of our design team.
Panfile Ltd
I have been working with Jonathan and his Achieve Green team in Tunbridge Wells since 2011 on a range of projects from Schools, new build housing to straightforward extensions. They are very knowledgeable and efficient and have provided invaluable input to projects over the years ensuring that as a designer I can put forward the most cost effective solutions to complying with Part L.I always recommend Jonathan if ever anybody is in need of SAP and compliance testing services.
Bradbury Design Ltd