If you are building or renovating near a busy road, council or another approval authority may require a road noise assessment as part of your development application. Soundscape prepares road traffic noise assessments and acoustic reports for development approval, helping demonstrate that the proposed building can achieve suitable internal noise levels while avoiding unnecessary construction upgrades.

For NSW projects, road traffic noise can be a planning consideration under local council controls and, for some developments near busy roads, the NSW Transport and Infrastructure planning framework. Our approach is to assess the actual exposure of the proposed building, predict noise at different facades and levels, and then recommend practical acoustic treatments only where they are needed.

This site-specific approach can make a significant difference to project cost. Instead of applying one generic road noise result to the entire house, we can identify the noisier and quieter parts of the building and tailor glazing, walls, roof/ceiling construction and ventilation recommendations accordingly.

Two Types of Road Noise Assessment

We offer two assessment methods. The best option depends on the road, the site, the available information and how much value can be gained from more detailed site data.

Desktop Assessment & 3D Noise Modelling

Our desktop road noise assessment uses existing information, including available traffic data, site geometry and the proposed building plans. We use this information to construct a 3D noise model of the site and predict road traffic noise around the building.

The model provides discrete noise levels for different parts of the house rather than relying on one generic result. This allows acoustic treatments to be targeted to the facades, rooms or building elements that actually need them. By avoiding blanket upgrades across the entire development, the desktop method can reduce construction costs while still providing the acoustic information needed for development approval.

Measured Road Noise Assessment

For the highest level of site-specific accuracy, we can assess the development using real-world road noise measurements collected at the property. These measurements establish the actual noise environment at the site rather than relying only on existing desktop data and assumptions.

This method can be particularly valuable next to busy roads, where desktop data or conservative assumptions may over-predict the noise exposure. More accurate input data can reduce unnecessary acoustic upgrades and may save considerably more in construction than the additional cost of carrying out the measurements.

Which Road Noise Assessment Is Right for My Project?

A desktop assessment is often a cost-effective choice where reliable existing data is available and the development can be assessed confidently using 3D modelling. A measured assessment is generally preferred where the site is exposed to significant road traffic noise, the available data is conservative or uncertain, or where accurate site measurements could materially reduce the acoustic construction requirements.

We can review your address, plans and development approval requirements before recommending the most appropriate method. Our objective is not simply to produce an acoustic report, but to provide a clear compliance pathway with practical recommendations that minimise unnecessary building costs.

What You Receive

• A road traffic noise assessment and acoustic report suitable for development approval.
• Site-specific assessment of the proposed building and surrounding road noise environment.
• 3D noise modelling with noise levels determined around the building, rather than one generic site result.
• Identification of the facades, rooms or building elements requiring acoustic treatment.
• Practical recommendations for glazing, doors, walls, roof/ceiling systems and ventilation where required.
• Clear documentation for your council, certifier, architect, designer or builder.

Request a Road Noise Assessment Quote

To obtain a quotation, send us the project address, architectural or concept plans, and any council request, consent condition or planning document that refers to road traffic noise. We can then advise whether a desktop assessment or on-site noise measurements are likely to provide the best outcome for your development.