Soundproof Apartment: A Complete Guide to a Successful Purchase in Paris

In Paris, where noise pollution is omnipresent, finding a well-soundproofed apartment can transform your daily life. Between street noise, the neighborhood and public transport, a poorly insulated home can quickly become a source of stress. To maximize your chances of finding the ideal property, call on a Parisian apartment hunter, who will guide you to properties adapted to your needs for calm and comfort. In this article, discover our tips for identifying an apartment offering optimal sound insulation.

1. Understanding the Different Noise Pollusions

To properly choose an apartment, it is essential to understand the different noise sources that may affect you.

a. Outside noises

• Proximity to airports:
  If the apartment is located in an area covered by a Noise Exposure Plan (PEB), noise pollution from airplanes can be frequent. The owner is legally required to provide an ENSA (State of Aerial Noise Pollution) at the time of sale.
• Busy streets and tourist areas:
  The main streets, shopping streets and party areas generate constant noise, especially in the evenings and on weekends. Even the small alleys close to these arteries can be impacted.
• Public transport:
  Skytrain lines, trains and bus routes are nuisance factors that should not be overlooked. Vibrations, in addition to noise, can worsen discomfort.

b. Interior noises

• Neighborhood:
  Neighbour-related noises (music, heels, conversations) can be amplified by poor sound insulation between floors.
• Common areas:
  An elevator, a trash can room or a stairwell near your front door can become recurring sources of nuisance.

2. Identifying the Indicators of a Well Soundproofed Apartment

a. Labels and certifications

• NF Habitat:
  This certification guarantees sound insulation in accordance with modern standards, but it is rare on old properties.
• RT 2012 and RE 2020:
  These recent regulations include sound insulation standards, mainly on new homes.

b. Insulation materials and techniques

• Double and triple glazing:
  Double glazing is essential to reduce outside noise. In very noisy areas, opt for triple glazing for optimal comfort.
• Insulated walls and ceilings:
  Acoustic panels or partitions made of special plasterboard are items to look for.
• Floor acoustic underlays:
  They absorb impact noises, such as footsteps or shocks.

c. Layout and orientation

• Room layout:
  Rooms that face inner courtyards or quiet alleys generally offer more tranquility.
• Housing floor:
  High-floor apartments are often less exposed to street noise.

3. Practical Tips for Assessing Soundproofing

Visiting an apartment is an essential step in judging its sound insulation. Here are a few tips to avoid unpleasant surprises.

a. Multiply visits

• At different times of the day:
  A visit during the day may not reveal nighttime noise. Try to organize visits in the evenings or on weekends.
• Weekdays and weekends:
  Some quiet neighborhoods during the week become very lively at the weekend, especially around the festive areas.

b. Pay attention to detail

• Test the windows:
  Shut them off and listen if outside noises persist.
• Request information:
  Feel free to ask questions about neighbours, neighborhood habits, or the quality of the materials used.

c. Call in an expert

An apartment hunter like HOME SELECT can help you identify properties that meet your criteria of calm. Thanks to their in-depth knowledge of Parisian neighborhoods, they can avoid unpleasant surprises.

4. Improving the Soundproofing of an Apartment After Purchase

If your dream apartment has shortcomings in terms of sound insulation, it is always possible to correct the situation.

a. Windows and doors

• Install double or triple glazing to significantly reduce external pollution.
• Replace window seals for better acoustic sealing.

b. Floors and walls

• Add acoustic underlays under the parquet or opt for coverings such as carpet.
• Install insulation panels on the adjoining walls and ceilings.

c. Interior walls and doors

• Change the doors for full, thicker models.
• Install acoustic curtains to limit resonances in the rooms.

5. Trust HOME SELECT for a successful purchase

Choosing a well-soundproofed apartment in Paris can be complex. With a HOME SELECT real estate hunter, you benefit from tailor-made support:

• Analysis of noise pollution: Identification of the best isolated neighborhoods and properties.
• Exclusive offers: Access “off-market” apartments, which are often less exposed to pollution.
• Optimization of visits: Preparation of appointments at strategic times.

Thanks to their expertise, you save time and avoid pitfalls, while finding the property perfectly suited to your needs.

The keys to finding a soundproof apartment in Paris

1. Identify the main sources of noise pollution: outdoor and indoor.
2. Look for technical elements such as double glazing, acoustic underlays or quality labels.
3. Visit the properties at various times of the day to assess noise exposure.
4. Consider improvements to improve sound insulation if necessary.
5. Rely on an expert like HOME SELECT for a stress-free purchase.

With these tips, you are ready to find the ideal apartment, where peace and comfort combine for a serene daily life.