The builders experience – mere compliance to enhanced performance Sustainable new homes and sound insulation conference Dave Poole

Safety first So you think you have problems!

Pre 2003: Case Study 1 Houses n ADE Deemed to satisfy constructions – The cost of failure! n Post occupation remedial costs

Pre 2003: Case Study 2 Apartments n Fencing / skips / protection to common areas + labour n Post occupation remedial costs n Removal / storage / return of furniture & soft coverings n Hotel accommodation for occupiers – 12 weeks n Remove & replace wall coverings / kitchens / electrics & bathrooms n New ceilings and flanking wall treatments + cleaning & redecoration

Pre-completion Testing (PCT) Requires PERSON CARRYING OUT THE WORK to ensure: Appropriate sound testing is carried out Give results to BCB no later than 5 days after completion

ADE Guidance constructions n Built correctly example constructions achieve sound insulation requirements n PCT - Proof of performance as built n Testing raises standards! n Assured customer satisfaction? n if built correctly should meet the requirements n Failed tests n Remedial works n Delay in legal completions n Additional testing n Costs and litigation

robustdetails Register each plot with RDL Build in accordance with the relevant RD specification Give registration document to the BCB [before work starts]

robustdetails approach n Robust Detail Status n Familiar construction n Meets thermal performance n Cost effective n Poor visibility n Continuity of batts n Blockwork joints n Checklists not completed

No Check sheets filled out as yet! Site Manager unaware of need to use Check sheets! Site Manager unable to confirm density of blocks used in Party or Flanking walls! Parge coat was smooth! Wall ties to Party Wall are not the correct type! Cavity width varied – in places less than 75mm!

Post 2003: Case Study 3 Houses n Constructions outside the Guidance and robust details n Range 52 – 58D +C ntwtr

Beyond Compliance n A commitment to carry out a programme of PCT based on frequency and performance n 1 credit = 50% of walls / floors ADE pass n 2 credits = 75% of walls / floors ADE pass n 3 credits = 75% of walls / floors ADE + / - 3dB n 4 credits = 75% of walls / floors ADE + / - 5dB (Based on 6No dwellings of the same type)

PCT sample data

Industry wide training needed!