Ductwork Pressure Testing

Independent duct leakage testing for commercial and healthcare ventilation systems.

We provide professional ductwork pressure testing to verify leakage performance, support compliance, and help contractors close projects with confidence. Whether you need testing to DW/144, DW/143, or HTM 03-01 project requirements, we deliver a clear, dependable service backed by practical site experience.

London Based – UK Wide Coverage

Specialist Ductwork Leakage Testing

Air leakage in ductwork can affect system performance, energy efficiency, balancing, and final project sign-off. Our pressure testing service is designed to give contractors, consultants, and end clients a reliable picture of ductwork leakage performance before handover.

At Elemental Building Services, we carry out duct pressure testing in a practical, straightforward manner. We work with the site team to confirm the test scope, isolate the required section, carry out the test using calibrated equipment, and issue clear results for your records.

Why ductwork pressure testing matters

Verify compliance

Pressure testing helps demonstrate that installed ductwork meets the project leakage requirements.

Reduce delays at handover

Identifying leakage issues early helps avoid last-minute problems during commissioning and final inspections.

Support system performance

Uncontrolled leakage can affect airflow delivery, fan performance, and balancing.

Protect quality

Testing provides an objective check on workmanship, sealing quality, and installation standards.

Our duct pressure testing service

We provide pressure testing for a wide range of ductwork systems, including:

  • Supply air ductwork
  • Extract air ductwork
  • Fresh air ductwork
  • Return air ductwork
  • High-level and riser sections
  • Plantroom ductwork
  • Healthcare ventilation ductwork
  • New installations and selected system sections

We can attend projects where the requirement is for:

  • Leakage testing to project specification
  • Witnessed testing
  • Partial system testing
  • Pre-commissioning verification
  • Testing before ceiling close-up
  • Testing prior to handover
  • Support with leakage investigation and rectification

Standards and sectors

We support projects requiring testing in line with:

  • DW/144
  • DW/143
  • HTM 03-01 for healthcare projects
  • Project-specific consultant or main contractor requirements

Our service is suitable for:

  • Commercial offices
  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities
  • Laboratories
  • Schools and universities
  • Residential developments
  • Industrial buildings
  • Plantrooms and specialist ventilation systems

Our process

1. Review the test scope

We review the drawings, identified test sections, pressure class, and project requirements before attending site.

2. Confirm site readiness

We check that the duct section is ready for testing, including access, temporary blanking, and isolation of the required section.

3. Carry out the pressure test

Using calibrated test equipment, we pressurise the duct section and measure the leakage rate against the required criteria.

4. Record and report the results

We provide a clear record of the test section, test pressure, measured leakage, and pass or fail outcome in line with the project requirement.

5. Support rectification if needed

If leakage exceeds the allowable level, we can help identify likely problem areas and support the next steps toward retesting.

Leakage investigation and rectification support

Passing the test is not only about running equipment on site. It is about understanding the system, preparing it properly, and identifying where losses are occurring.

Where required, we can support with:

  • Leakage investigation
  • Identification of common failure points
  • Practical advice before retest
  • Leakage reduction works
  • Aeroseal-based leakage sealing support on suitable projects

This allows us to support clients not only with testing, but also with solving the problem.

Why choose Elemental Building Services

Practical site understanding
We understand the realities of live construction projects and work closely with site teams to keep testing efficient.

Clear communication
You receive straightforward information before attendance and a clear result afterwards.

Professional reporting
Our reports are structured, readable, and suitable for project records.

Flexible support
From one-off tests to multiple visits and leakage rectification support, we can adapt to project needs.

Commercial and healthcare focus
We understand the higher expectations placed on critical ventilation systems and specialist environments.

Frequently asked question example

What standards do you test to?

We can support testing to DW/144, DW/143, and HTM 03-01 project requirements, depending on the application and specification. DW/144 covers the specification for sheet metal ductwork, DW/143 covers ductwork air leakage testing guidance, and HTM 03-01 applies to specialised ventilation in healthcare premises.

Can you test only part of a duct system?

Yes. We can test selected sections where this is permitted by the project specification and where the ductwork can be properly isolated.

What happens if the system fails?

We record the result clearly and can help identify likely causes of excess leakage before a retest is arranged.

Do you offer witnessed testing?

Yes. We can carry out witnessed tests where the client, consultant, or main contractor needs to observe the process.

Can you help before we are ready to test?

Yes. If you send us drawings or site information in advance, we can help you understand what is needed before attendance.