<table><tbody><tr><td><b>Airtightness testing "not onerous"</b></td></tr><tr><td><b>Editor:</b> I read with interest the news piece in the October issue of Housebuilder concerning Part L changes, including comments by Dave Baker, md of Robust Details Ltd. <p></p><p>Firstly regarding comments on the "complex requirements such as the airtightness testing of new homes," BSRIA has worked with a number of housebuilders already to ascertain the current level of airtightness being achieved. In all cases the builder has not seen the test as in any way complex. Simon Wakerley, construction director of Gleeson Homes said: "I was pleasantly surprised by the ease, simplicity and speed of performing such tests." </p><p>Mr Baker states there is a possibility for the industry to develop robust details as an alternative to airtightness testing. It is however, our inter-pretation that the current draft of approved document L1A does not indicate this. Paragraphs 58 to 61 of the draft document indicates three paths to compliance, all requiring sample air pressure testing. In particular, third party monitoring schemes are "likely to include more diagnostic testing than would be required just to demonstrate compliance." </p><p>Builders should be reassured that achieving airtightness targets are not onerous or complex. Both BSRIA and the HBF are currently running regional …