Background Ventilation
Testing

Ensuring sufficient ventilation for occupant health, compliance and comfort

Providing a safe, comfortable and sustainable environment

Background ventilation testing evaluates the natural airflow within a building to ensure there is sufficient ventilation for compliance with standards like PAS 2035. This type of testing is particularly critical during retrofit projects, where airtightness improvements can inadvertently reduce natural ventilation.

Background ventilation testing enables architects, developers, self-builders and consultants to identify and resolve any ventilation risks early, which in turn helps to create a healthier indoor environment for occupants and preserve the benefits of energy efficiency upgrades. This service is carried out by an external provider and project managed by our consultants to ensure a hassle-free process and integration with other services we will complete for you.

Why do you need this service?

Regulatory
compliance

Carrying out background ventilation testing is the only way to ensure your building is compliant with PAS 2035 standards.

Healthier
spaces

These tests help to prevent damp, mould, and stale air from accumulating inside the property by maintaining adequate ventilation.

Better energy
efficiency

Balance airtightness with airflow for a more sustainable performance – and futureproof your project in the process.

Our Process

Arrange an initial consultation,

during which we’ll discuss project requirements and ventilation concerns.

Carry out a site assessment

and conduct detailed testing of natural ventilation pathways and ACH rates.

Analyse your property

before providing a detailed report with findings and recommendations.

Provide ongoing support,

including putting solutions in place to improve airflow if needed.

Deliver follow-up tests

to verify the effectiveness of any implemented changes.

Why choose Energy Digest?

Our background ventilation testing service delivers precise assessments and compliance support, enabling your building to achieve the perfect balance between energy efficiency and healthy ventilation. 
One of the major benefits of partnering with us is that we will manage your entire testing project on your behalf, for no additional fee. This is an aspect to our offering that’s much appreciated by our customers, many of whom are struggling to juggle their building’s compliance requirements yet want to ensure no corners are cut when it comes to this aspect of their work. 

Fast turnaround time

To help you meet your deadlines, we’ll arrange your background ventilation test as soon as possible.

Multi-disciplined team

We cover 20+ services in the built environment, with specialists providing high-value calculations and strong advice.

Practical solutions

Our professionals provide recommendations that are calculated to ensure real world outcomes, resulting in cost-effectiveness and high impact.

Expert partnerships

We collaborate with leading background ventilation testers and project manage the works on your behalf, free of charge.

Speak to our
experts today

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Background Ventilation Testing FAQs

It evaluates the natural airflow in a building, ensuring sufficient ventilation for health and compliance with PAS 2035.

Retrofit projects often reduce natural ventilation by improving airtightness. Testing ensures ventilation remains adequate, preventing health risks and regulatory issues.

The process involves measuring ACH rates, evaluating ventilation openings, and identifying blockages or obstructions using advanced equipment.

In the UK, PAS 2035 governs ventilation requirements, particularly in retrofit projects where architects and developers are aiming to improve energy efficiency.

Yes, background ventilation testing highlights insufficient airflow, and potentially blocked vents, or design features limiting ventilation, allowing for targeted corrective actions.

Balancing Airtightness and 
Air Quality

Retrofits often tighten building envelopes, risking poor air quality. Background ventilation testing ensures airflow through passive systems, balancing efficiency with occupant health and PAS 2035 compliance.

This process safeguards sustainable, healthy living spaces in modern retrofits.
This testing is critical for balancing airtightness with occupant health, avoiding the risk of stale air, discomfort, or regulatory non-compliance.

Spoke with Josh who not only reassured me but asked for a fee that I thought was fair. Thank you Josh. Use again? Definitely.

Steve Quirk

The team really know their stuff – super helpful and always had clear answers to any questions or compliance issues we ran into. Definitely our go-to for any future projects!

Nathan Donnelly

Quick and well priced water calculation service and received an appliance specification report alongside the certificate which was really useful for us and the building control officer, highly recommended!

Ilma Akhtar

Very knowledgeable about building regulations, and the industry. Always goes the extra mile to help out! 5*

Karim Meraga

Still unsure?

We offer free phone call and email support until you’re ready to proceed with us.
Access free support for your project now.

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