What is a vibration survey?
A vibration survey is the prediction, measurement and assessment of ground vibration caused by construction work, carried out to prevent damage to nearby buildings, disturbance to occupants and interference with sensitive equipment. It matters most for piling, driving or vibrating sheet piles, demolition, soil compaction and heavy site traffic.
How it works
- Prediction or risk assessment: before work starts, a specialist estimates the expected vibration levels based on the construction method, the ground conditions, the distance and the condition and foundations of neighbouring buildings.
- Pre-construction condition survey: an independent surveyor records the state of adjacent properties with photographs and notes on existing cracks, so that new damage can be proven later.
- Vibration monitoring during the works: monitors fixed to neighbouring buildings record continuously. Trigger levels are agreed in advance; when they are exceeded, an alert is sent and the work is adjusted or stopped.
- Post-construction survey: the buildings are inspected again and compared with the first survey.
Standards
In the UK, vibration from construction sites is commonly assessed using BS 5228-2 (vibration control on construction and open sites), with BS 7385-2 giving guidance on damage levels in buildings. In Germany the reference is DIN 4150, in the Netherlands the SBR vibration guideline. Which limits apply depends on the type of building and the source of vibration.
| UK | BS 5228-2 (vibration control on construction and open sites), with BS 7385-2 giving guidance on damage levels in buildings |
|---|---|
| Germany | DIN 4150 |
| Netherlands | SBR vibration guideline |
Practical tips
- Living next to a building site? Ask the developer early whether a condition survey of your home is planned, and be present. Point out existing cracks and ask for a copy of the report.
- Take your own dated photos of facades, ceilings and tiling before work begins.
- Ask about the monitoring plan: where the monitors are, what trigger levels apply and who to contact with complaints.
- Report new damage immediately in writing, with photos and dates.
- Fragile buildings such as old masonry or listed buildings need extra care; low-vibration methods such as bored piles instead of driven piles may be an option.
Related terms
- Driven pile
- Sheet pile wall
- Foundation survey
- Crack
- Demolition
- Noise nuisance
Want to learn more about construction terms? Visit our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.