Choosing the right acoustic consultant can be daunting, especially if you are unfamiliar with specialist sound testing and design services. Why not just choose the cheapest quote and hope for the best? What makes Adrian James Acoustics different?
EXPERIENCE
AJA was established over 25 years ago and has built up an enviable reputation. In 2003, Director Adrian James was called upon to draft the government’s groundbreaking Building bulletin 93 document. Susbsequently Adrian also served as the chair of the industry’s representative body, the Association of Noise Consultants.
His team of professionals have a wealth of experience and specialist knowledge. Of course this is essential when perfecting the sound design for a string of award-winning concert halls, schools and other buildings, but it also pays dividends in more routine work such as mandatory pre-completion Part E testing.
PROFESSIONAL
The world of acoustics and sound testing is very specialised. Like architecture or law, it demands a high degree of professional training. Sadly, some acoustic engineers have not gained the qualifications which all AJA staff must achieve. We are longstanding members of the Association of Noise Consultants, and all of our consultants are members of the Institute of Acoustics, and have to demonstrate continuing learning and professional development every year.
Unlike many smaller practices and one-man bands, we work in small teams on each project, so that every project benefits from discussions, exchanges of ideas and checking. All reports are carefully reviewed using our rigorous quality control procedures to maintain the highest of reporting standards. We have a large amount of Professional Indemnity cover but we have never needed it.
ADDED VALUE
When appointing Adrian James Acoustics to a project, we add value by pooling our joint expertise in small collaborative teams. We also have long-standing contacts with Environmental Health Officers and Building Control Officers. This ultimately can save money for the client, as we can agree methodologies with the relevant authorities before starting work. This avoids the costs which can arise when planning authorities reject reports from consultants who have not consulted with them in advance.
Also, when designing the acoustics of buildings, we actually provide designs, drawings and details. Many other consultants merely provide performance specifications, so that you will have to pay (directly or indirectly) for someone else to do the acoustic design. For this reason, when comparing quotations from acoustics consultants, it is very important to ensure that they are all quoting for the same scope of work. In acoustics, as elsewhere, quality comes at a price , and if you select someone purely on the basis of lowest cost you should not be surprised if the results do not meet your expectations.
EQUIPMENT
As technology improves, so does the risk of choosing an acoustic engineer who may carry out work at a knock-down price using outdated equipment. At AJA we invest heavily in the latest measurement equipment and software, including the most advanced systems for modelling room acoustics, sound insulation and environmental noise. This guarantees high-quality data collection and reliable, traceable calculations – something which is reflected in our detailed reports.
SAFETY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
We are registered with the CQMS health and safety scheme, ensuring pro-active management of legal safety requirements. This offers peace of mind to the client – something especially important as site attendances may be carried out at night or under other challenging conditions.
VALUE FOR MONEY
You may be surprised to learn that in the UK, anyone can call themselves an acoustics consultant, with no experience or qualifications needed. Whatever your project, choosing a good acoustician should not be based on price alone, especially in the current economic climate when many unemployed individuals are desperate to secure work at any cost. We are always happy to discuss your requirements and offer advice which may ultimately save you money. No matter how unusual the job is, we have probably had experience of it and can work out how to deliver results at a keen price, while still maintaining quality.
If you would like to talk about how we can help, please phone us on 01603 721511.