So, what does BS 8233 Planning Noise Surveys – What It Means for Your Building Project. BS 8233:2014 provides practical guidance on noise control in and around buildings, helping designers and developers achieve acceptable internal noise levels. It covers external noise intrusion, internal sound insulation, building services noise and general acoustic design.
What BS 8233 Covers
The standard applies to:
- New buildings
- Refurbishments
- Change‑of‑use projects
It does not cover specialist spaces such as cinemas or auditoria.
BS 8233 emphasises that noise control should be approached objectively, noting:
“Noise control in and around buildings is discussed… on an objective and quantifiable basis.”
Planning & Design Requirements for BS 8233
BS 8233 sets out a six‑stage design process:
- Site noise assessment
- Setting internal noise criteria
- Façade and ventilation design
- Internal sound insulation
- Noise control measures
- Quality control
APT provides full support through:
https://aptsoundtesting.co.uk/noise-surveys/https://aptsoundtesting.co.uk/acoustic-design-service/https://aptsoundtesting.co.uk/sound-testing/
External Noise Assessment
The standard covers noise from:
- Road traffic
- Aircraft
- Railways
- Industry
- Construction
- Wind farms
Façade reflections typically increase measured levels by 1–2 dB, which must be considered in design.
Internal Noise Criteria for BS 8233
BS 8233 provides recommended internal noise levels for dwellings:
- Living rooms: 35 dB LAeq
- Bedrooms: 30 dB LAeq
- Dining rooms: 40 dB LAeq
These values form the basis of most planning noise assessments.
APT offers:
BS8233 noise surveys – please click on the following link for more information: https://aptsoundtesting.co.uk/noise-surveys/bs8233-noise-assessments/
https://aptsoundtesting.co.uk/acoustic-design-service/
Internal Sound Insulation
BS 8233 highlights the importance of:
- Airborne and impact sound insulation
- Flanking control
- Good workmanship
It notes:
“Flanking transmission can significantly reduce the overall sound insulation performance.”
APT provides pre‑completion sound testing and acoustic detailing:
Building Services Noise
The standard covers noise from:
- Ventilation
- Air‑conditioning
- Pumps
- Lifts
- Boilers
Good design and installation are essential to avoid noise complaints.
APT provides building services noise assessments:
Why Use APT Sound Testing?
- UKAS‑accredited
- 22+ years’ experience
- Nationwide coverage
- Fast reporting
- Detailed acoustic design
- Full BS8233, BS4142 & Part E support
About APT Sound Testing
APT Sound Testing is a UKAS‑accredited acoustic consultancy with over 22 years’ specialist experience in building acoustics, environmental noise assessment, BS8233 Residential Noise Assessments, BS4142 industrial noise surveys, sound insulation testing and Part E compliance. We support residential, commercial and industrial developments across the UK, providing fast, accurate and fully compliant acoustic testing and reporting using the latest Norsonic Class 1, UKAS calibrated acoustic equipment.
Our team combines deep technical expertise with practical, contractor‑friendly guidance to help clients achieve full compliance with Approved Document E, BS8233, BS4142, BB93, HTM 08‑01 and wider planning and building control requirements. Whether you need pre‑completion sound testing, noise impact assessments, acoustic design advice or troubleshooting for difficult sites, we deliver reliable results with a rapid turnaround.
Contact Us Now
Please contact us now using the following contact details:
APT Sound Testing:
Tel: 07775 623464
Email: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk