PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES: 15. MULTI-UNIT

15.10 Sound Transmission in Multi-Family Building

Acceptable Performance/Condition

Typical wall/floor assemblies must be constructed to meet minimum standards established by the BC Building Code. For sound transmission complaints to be considered a warrantable defect it must be demonstrated that a wall/floor assembly was not constructed in a manner that meets the minimum BC Building Code requirements. The fact that sound can be heard through adjacent wall/floor assemblies, in itself, is not evidence that a defect exists.

The BC Building Code currently has no requirements for the control of impact noise transmission. Vibration from items, such as washing machines, plumbing and closing doors, etc., can sometimes cause impact noise.

The BC Building Code has established the minimum measurable airborne sound transmission standards that must be met. These minimum performance standards are known as Sound Transmission Class Ratings (STC). The wall/floor assemblies listed in the BC Building Code have been laboratory tested to produce their typical STC Ratings.

Warranty Coverage

• 12 months In-Home
• 15 months Common Property

Claim Response

Wall/floor assemblies not meeting the Acceptable Performance/Condition shall be rectified.

Maintenance Tip

No maintenance tips available