An acoustic engineer measures, predicts and mitigates noise and vibration in and around buildings. Their work spans two main areas: planning acoustics - assessing whether a proposed development is affected by existing noise sources and specifying mitigation in construction details - and building acoustics, where they test and specify the sound insulation performance of walls and floors between dwellings. Part E of the Building Regulations requires sound insulation testing for new-build dwellings and many change-of-use conversions, and planning conditions frequently require acoustic reports before development consent is granted.
What they do
- Environmental noise surveys using calibrated sound level meters
- Sound insulation testing - airborne and impact (Part E compliance)
- Room acoustics design for music venues, studios and educational buildings
- Noise impact assessments for planning applications
- Vibration assessment from road, rail and construction sources
- HHSRS noise assessments for housing conditions
- Part E compliance specifications for separating walls and floors
- Noise condition discharge for planning - written schemes of investigation
When you need one
An acoustic engineer is needed when planning policy requires a noise assessment, when Building Regulations require sound insulation testing, or when a building is being designed with specific acoustic performance requirements.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Environmental noise survey | £500 - £1,500 |
| Noise impact assessment (planning) | £800 - £2,500 |
| Sound insulation testing - pre-completion | £300 - £600 |
| Room acoustics design | £600 - £2,000 |
| Vibration assessment | £600 - £1,800 |
| Hourly rate | £75 - £130 / hr |
Noise surveys may require overnight or weekend monitoring for mixed-use sites near entertainment venues. Always confirm monitoring duration, reporting format and whether planning condition discharge is included in the fee.
Qualifications to look for
The primary qualification for acoustic consultants in the UK. Requires a recognised degree in acoustics or a related discipline and demonstrated professional competence. FIOA (Fellow) denotes senior status. Check membership at ioa.org.uk.
Senior IOA membership awarded to experienced practitioners who have made a significant contribution to the profession. Look for FIOA on complex projects such as major planning applications or bespoke studio design.
The academic foundation for IOA membership. Acoustics degrees are offered at a small number of UK universities; many acoustic engineers graduate in physics or engineering and specialise subsequently.
How to find a reputable acoustic engineer
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When does a planning application need an acoustic report?
Planning authorities require an acoustic assessment when a site is near a noise source such as a road, railway, pub, music venue or industrial use, and for change of use to residential. The National Planning Policy Framework requires noise to be considered at all relevant stages of planning and development management.
What is a Pre-Completion Sound Insulation Test?
A Pre-Completion Sound Insulation Test is required under Part E of the Building Regulations for new-build dwellings and material change of use where dwellings share a wall or floor. It checks that separating elements achieve the required airborne and impact sound insulation values using calibrated measurement equipment. Tests are carried out by an accredited acoustic consultant before the building control sign-off.
How much does an acoustic survey cost?
A basic environmental noise survey typically costs £500-£1,500 depending on the duration of monitoring and the number of measurement positions required. A full noise impact assessment for a planning application typically costs £800-£2,500. Pre-completion sound insulation testing typically costs £300-£600 per building.