Airflow testing and commissioning in Devon

Airflow testing measures how much air each fan or valve actually moves, using a calibrated flow hood, and records it against the required rates. It is how you prove a ventilation system works, and for new homes it is part of the building regulations.

We carry out airflow testing and commissioning across Devon, including Bideford, Plymouth, Exeter, Paignton and Torquay. Prices use South West rates. This is a charged visit. We confirm the cost in writing before we book it.

Airflow testing in Devon at a glance

Area: Devon
Towns listed: 21, largest Plymouth
Postcode districts: PL7, PL21, TQ2, TQ12, EX7 and EX8
Price region: South West
Survey: Charged visit, price agreed first

What the work involves

Approved Document F expects mechanical ventilation in new dwellings to be tested with a flow device that has been calibrated within the last 12 months, and the results recorded on a commissioning sheet. The person commissioning should be registered with a competent person scheme for ventilation or show evidence of competence; we tell you who will sign your sheet when we quote. Testing is also useful outside new builds: it shows landlords and homeowners whether existing fans meet the rates, and it is the first step in rebalancing an MVHR system that no longer feels right.

MVHR commissioning

Supply and extract at every valve measured and balanced.

Remedial advice

If a fan fails, we explain why and quote the fix.

Extract fan tests

Each fan measured and compared with the Part F rate for the room.

Guide prices in Devon

Airflow testing and commissioning guide prices in Devon
Work	Guide price
Airflow testing and commissioning sheet for extract fans (up to 6 fans) (per home)	£150–£305 inc VAT
MVHR or MEV commissioning test, every terminal measured and recorded (per system)	£255–£410 inc VAT
Rebalance and recommission an existing MVHR system (per system)	£255–£465 inc VAT

These ranges use our South West rates. Prices include VAT at 20%. You get a fixed written price before any work is booked.

Signs it is time to call us

Building control needs a commissioning sheet
You are selling a new build and the paperwork is missing
Fans seem weak and you want evidence

Rules in England

English building work follows Approved Document F (2021 edition) for ventilation rates, installation and commissioning. It sets extract rates for kitchens, bathrooms and utilities and asks for mechanical ventilation to be commissioned and recorded.

How the job runs

Book
Measure
Adjust
Record
Advise

Towns we cover in Devon

Questions about airflow testing and commissioning in Devon

Is the survey free in Devon?

This is a charged visit because it is servicing, testing or repair work. We tell you the cost before booking. Surveys for new installations on the UK mainland are free.

What happens if a fan fails the test?

We explain the likely cause, such as an undersized fan or a crushed duct, and quote to fix it. Many failures are cheap to put right.

Is testing a legal requirement?

For new dwellings in England, mechanical ventilation must be commissioned and the results given to building control. For existing homes it is good practice and useful evidence.

Which rules apply to ventilation in Devon?

In England, ventilation in new and altered homes is covered by Approved Document F of the Building Regulations. Landlords also have duties under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, and workplaces must be ventilated under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.

Which towns in Devon do you cover?

All of Devon, including Bideford, Plymouth, Exeter, Paignton and Torquay. If your town is not listed, send the postcode and we will confirm.