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Air leakage post-completion testing Scotland For all projects from small housing developments to mixed use schemes

Section 6 of the Scottish Building Standards sets the energy efficiency standards for new homes and requires that a sample of new homes on all developments is tested for air leakage (also known as air tightness, air permeability or air pressure testing).

In association with RMP, a consulting division of Edinburgh Napier University, we offer a complete post-completion testing service in Scotland. All the RMP consultants are BINDT members who have the experience to help you on any project with:

• fast response, quick results - testing is arranged around your build schedule and you receive an immediate indication of test performance on site, with a full certificate/report sent electronically shortly afterwards
• expert remedial advice if your development fails any of the tests, helping you achieve compliance as quickly as possible. We will, whenever possible, undertake re-tests during the same visit to help you get the pass you need
• a complete compliance solution if you combine your air leakage testing with our Section 6 energy services. We will ensure swift communication between teams to help you clear outstanding technical conditions.
  

When do you need air leakage testing?

Testing should be carried out on completed properties. We recommend that you discuss your requirements with us at the design stage and book provisional testing date(s) at the same time so that they're incorporated into your build programme. However, as a minimum, you should book tests 6 to 8 weeks before you need to clear any relevant Building Standards conditions.

What are the requirements of Section 6 (Energy)?

With effect from 1 October 2010, Section 6 (Energy) of the Scottish Building Standards requires post-completion air tightness testing.

It requires an "improvement in the specified performance to deliver a 30% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions" compared to 2007 standards.

It is recommended that buildings be designed to 10 m3/m2.h @ 50 Pa or better though an infiltration rate of 7 m3/m2.h @ 50 Pa is used for the TER calculation.

As a baseline, testing needs to be carried out for 1 in 20 dwellings, of each dwelling type, to confirm the dwelling achieves the designed air infiltration rate and delivers a sufficient level of ventilation.