As urban areas like the City of Westminster and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea continue to adopt sustainable technologies lead by the government, air source heat pumps (ASHPs) have become a popular choice for energy-efficient heating. However, planning authorities often require a noise impact assessment to ensure that these units do not exceed permitted noise limits and cause disturbances to residents.
At Clement Acoustics, we specialise in providing fast, cost-effective, and bespoke noise assessments, helping homeowners and developers meet local authority planning requirements with minimal hassle.
Why Is a Noise Impact Assessment Required?
ASHPs operate by extracting heat from the outdoor air and then using this energy to heat homes; however, the external units generate noise (unwanted sound)—typically from the compressor and fan. The City of Westminster and the London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC), along with most local authorities, enforce strict noise criteria, ensuring that ASHP installations are usually controlled to 10 dB(A) below the pre-existing background noise levels; following the assessment methodology in BS 4142:2014 +A1:2019.
Failure to comply can lead to planning application refusals or enforcement action, making a professional noise assessment essential for a smooth approval process.
How Clement Acoustics Ensures Compliance
Our approach is tailored to each project, ensuring accurate results and quick turnaround times to meet planning deadlines:
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- Background Noise Survey – We conduct on-site measurements to establish existing noise levels, typically over a 24-hour period or longer to capture typical daytime and night-time conditions.
- Noise Prediction & Assessment – Using advanced acoustic modelling software or standard acoustic calculations, we assess the ASHP’s expected noise emissions at the nearest noise-sensitive receptors (e.g. neighbouring properties) and determine the level of noise impact or the difference between the predicted noise level and the background noise level.
- Mitigation Advice – If noise levels exceed the required limits, we provide practical solutions such as optimised positioning, acoustic enclosures, or acoustic barriers / screens.
- Comprehensive Report Submission – Our reports are designed to satisfy the planning requirements such as those issued by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea or Westminster, ensuring a seamless submission process.
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Why Choose Clement Acoustics?
Choosing the right acoustic consultant can mean the difference between a successful planning application and costly mitigation and/or delays. Clement Acoustics offers:
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- Fast Turnaround – We understand planning constraints and will deliver reports within tight deadlines.
- Bespoke Solutions – Each site is unique, and our tailored assessments ensure compliance without unnecessary costs.
- Cost-Effective Service – We provide high-quality, budget-friendly acoustic assessments without compromising accuracy.
- Local Expertise – Our experience with the City of Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea and other London Borough planning regulations ensures our assessments align with council expectations.
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FAQ
Do I need a noise impact assessment for my air source heat pump in London?
Yes, most planning applications for ASHPs in London Boroughs require a noise impact assessment to ensure compliance with a low impact according to BS 4142 and local noise limits.
What happens if my ASHP exceeds noise limits?
We can recommend cost-effective noise mitigation strategies, such as relocating the unit, using acoustic barriers or enclosures, or selecting a quieter model.
How quickly can Clement Acoustics complete the assessment?
We offer fast turnaround times, our lead time to come to your property is usually between 2-4 working days.
Get in Touch
If you’re planning to install an air source heat pump, ensure a hassle-free approval with a professional noise assessment and contact Clement Acoustics today to discuss your project.
By combining technical expertise with efficiency, Clement Acoustics makes it simple to navigating noise related planning condition.