Certified Air Tightness Tester Scheme

Introduction

Under revised building regulations which came into force in January 2008, air tightness testing is mandatory for all dwellings. Further improvements to backstop performance levels have come into effect with the publication of the updates to the Technical Guidance Document (TGD) to the Building Regulations.

Technical Guidance Document L- Conservation of Fuel and Energy – Dwellings (2021)

Technical Guidance Document L - Conservation of Fuel and Energy - Buildings other than Dwellings

NSAI operates a registration scheme that certifies testers to I.S. EN ISO 9972:2015 - Thermal Performance of Buildings – Determination of Air Permeability of Buildings – (Single or Single & Multi) Fan Pressurization Method.

Looking for an Airtightness Tester?

Click 'Thermal performance of buildings - Determination of air permeability of buildings – (Single or Single & Multi) Fan pressurization method (ISO 9972:2015)' from the drop-down menu here.

What does the Scheme Involve?

Under the scheme, NSAI inspectors assess the operations and procedures of air tightness testers. NSAI inspectors witness an airtightness test against the requirements of I.S. EN ISO 9972:2015. 
Inspectors also carry out an assessment of:

• A number of Airtightness test reports.
• That appropriate records are maintained for completed tests.
• Test equipment is adequately maintained and under calibration.
• Health & Safety documentation is in place.

When our inspectors are satisfied that the tester is in compliance with the scheme requirements, the applicant company receives an NSAI Certificate of Registration.

What are the Benefits?

For air tightness testers, the benefits of I.S. EN ISO 9972:2015 registration are far-reaching.
The scheme:

• Helps developers and householders demonstrate compliance with the higher levels of energy conservation required under the Building Regulations
• Entitles the air testing company to use its NSAI registration number in business transactions
• Lists the company on the NSAI-maintained Directory of Registered Air Tightness Testers
• Provides independent reassurance to customers of the reliability of the air testing company.

What are the Fees?

For information on fees, see the Air Tightness Testing Scheme Master Doc Rev 8, available in the additional downloads tab.

*The initial audit fee of €1,250 for single fan and €1,875 for multi fan covers 1 pre audit submission of documents, audit and one satisfactory post audit submission.