Air Testing Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find air tightness testing Q&A. Find answers to frequently asked questions on Air Tightness Testing. Learn more at Building Compliance Testing.
Q. What is required for an Air Tightness test?
A. General Arrangement Drawings including Section and Elevation Plans, Site Address and Contact, A copy of the Design-stage SAP report
We may also request a copy of the Planning Decision Notice and Building Regulation drawings and specifications to assist us with providing an accurate model of the building being tested.
Q. When do I know I am ready for an Air Tightness test?
A. We will carry out the air tightness test once the unit is past the second fix stage and the building envelope is complete with all services installed and commissioned.
The following elements within the unit are completed:
- All walls are finished, including cladding, windows and doors.
- Skirting boards are fitted and sealed around
- Sockets and lights are fitted and completed, in some cases caulked around (mention potty pads)
- All plumbing work is completed and gaps or holes around the service pipes are sealed.
- Leakage around the door frame, threshold and window boards are sealed.
Q. What am I allowed to temporarily seal for an Air Tightness test?
A. In essence, anything that is designed ventilation can be closed and in some circumstances sealed (such as extractor fans), anything else is not permitted.
Background trickle ventilators, passive ventilation systems and any permanently designed uncontrolled natural ventilation (such as a chimney flue). Mechanical ventilation and air conditioning systems should be turned off and isolated.
If say a window is cracked or a gasket is missing and this is taped, this will be recorded as a deviation on the test report and will be subject to audit by the accreditation body ATTMA.
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