Since 2004 Adrian James Acoustics has been carrying out official accredited tests under the Robust Details scheme. But who, or what are “Robust Details” and why is it important to understand their role in the construction industry?
Robust Details is an organisation which provides an alternative to sound insulation testing between new-build residential properties. If the dwellings are registered with the scheme and constructed to the specifications provided, then Part E of the Building Regulations can be satisfied without the need for a pre-completion test.
You can register your new-build house or flat with Robust Details on their website. This will guide you through the registration process and provide details of available constructions.
Are change of use conversions to existing buildings included in the scheme?
No. Only new-build dwellings can be registered by Robust Details. Even if a separating wall or floor is built to a certain specification, the overall performance is affected by the surrounding structure. In the case of conversions this is an unknown factor, so the Robust Details scheme is not appropriate.
How are Adrian James Acoustics involved?
Robust Details need real-world test data to make sure that what they are specifying is performing as expected on site. Detailed analysis of as-built constructions also informs their technical department for future development. AJA tests a random sample of plots registered with Robust Details within our inspection area to monitor the on-site performance of the specified constructions. AJA also conducts site inspections for Robust Details on plots under construction.
What are the test criteria?
The test criteria are the same as for a pre-completion test and can be found in Table 0.1 of Approved Document E of the Building Regulations.
Which geographical areas does AJA cover?
We cover postcodes NR, IP, CB and PE. We have also recently been appointed to carry out Robust Details inspections in Lincolnshire (LN).
What happens if a test fails?
If a plot fails a sound test, we will investigate to establish the cause and report this to Robust Details. Robust Details will then inform building control who will decide on the appropriate course of action.
Please call us on 01603 721511 if you have any concerns or would like further information. Alternatively, Robust Details can be contacted on 03300 882141 for general enquiries and 03300 882140 for technical queries.