Acoustic Underlay for BTL Landlords — What to Specify

Written by our acoustic insulation specialist — 15+ years experience supplying soundproofing to UK homeowners, developers and contractors. About our experts.

From our acoustic insulation specialist — we supply many BTL landlords and HMO operators across the UK.

If you are a buy-to-let landlord, acoustic underlay is one of the most valuable improvements you can make to a rental property. Noise complaints are one of the leading causes of tenant disputes — and in HMOs, acoustic performance is increasingly a licensing requirement.

HMO Licensing and Acoustics

Many local authorities now require minimum acoustic standards for HMO licensing. Building Regs Part E standards are frequently referenced. Our 6mm acoustic underlay as part of a full system can help achieve these requirements — and we can advise on full system specifications.

What to Specify for BTL

• Mid-floor flats: 6mm rubber underlay (74dB) minimum
• Compliance-critical HMOs: 12mm acoustic flooring system
• Top-floor flats: 3mm rubber (54dB) adequate in most cases

The Business Case

Acoustic treatment reduces noise complaints, reduces tenant turnover, and supports HMO licensing compliance. The cost of acoustic underlay is modest relative to the cost of a noise dispute, a void period, or a licensing refusal. Contact our team for a free BTL specification consultation.