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Quieter Home
Program

Quieter Home Program Introduction and Overview

We’re helping San Diego families find a little more peace at home—reducing aircraft noise by at least 5 decibels, all while preserving the history and heart of each neighborhood. The Quieter Home Program (QHP) is an FAA-approved program that aims to reduce interior noise by at least five decibels, providing noticeable relief for eligible homeowners affected by aircraft noise from San Diego International Airport.

Mission

History

Program Goals & Requirements

Program Eligibility

Watch our Homeowner Informational Video

If you’d like more information, please contact the SAN Quieter Home Program team:

Mailing Address
Aircraft Noise Mitigation / Quieter Home Program, P.O. Box 82776, San Diego, CA 92138
Physical Address
2722 Truxtun Road, San Diego, CA 92106
Noise Complaint Line
619-400-2799 (English) |
619-400-2797 (Spanish)
General Phone Line
619-400-2660
Email
[email protected]

You may view the Quieter Home Video Transcript on YouTube.

Video Audio Description:

3 seconds

Welcome to the quieter home program.

5 seconds

You’ve been assigned a group and a program coordinator and you’re now on the path to a quieter home. In this video, we’ll cover eligibility,

14 seconds

policies, treatments, and the eight-step process so you know what to expect.

19 seconds

Since 2001, the Quieter Home program has sound insulated more than 6,000 homes.

26 seconds

According to FAA standards, homes in the 65 del contour area are considered affected by aircraft noise. This map

35 seconds

shows the contour with completed homes highlighted in purple. The program is funded by the San Diego County Regional

43 seconds

Airport Authority through FAA grants supported by ticket taxes from travelers. Because this funding comes

50 seconds

from the FAA, we must follow specific policies when treating your home.

57 seconds

Each homeowner is placed into a group with a shared timeline. The process typically takes one and a half to two years depending on FAA grant funding.

1 minute, 7 seconds

Please keep in mind schedules are tentative. Let’s review the eight-step process.

1 minute, 14 seconds

A key difference with this program is that the airport authority manages both the contractor and the work itself. We

1 minute, 22 seconds

serve as your advocates, ensuring everything meets industry standards and follows your plan. All deed owners must

1 minute, 31 seconds

sign two documents, the homeowner participation agreement and the navigation easement, free notary

1 minute, 38 seconds

services are available. You are completing step one, the homeowner meeting. Step two is your assessment.

1 minute, 47 seconds

Once you sign the required documents, we’ll schedule this visit.

1 minute, 52 seconds

A design team of six to eight experts will measure, photograph, and document your home to design treatments that

1 minute, 59 seconds

reduce aircraft noise. Photos and video are only for program use. Assessments last 1 to two hours and include a

2 minutes, 8 seconds

representative from the airport authority. You are now moving into step three, acoustical testing.

2 minutes, 16 seconds

In this step, our engineers confirm whether the average interior noise levels in your home are 45 dB or higher

2 minutes, 24 seconds

with all doors and windows closed. This test is required by the FAA and is the only way to measure the effectiveness of

2 minutes, 32 seconds

the treatments we provide. Here’s what to expect. Two to three acoustical engineers along with your program

2 minutes, 39 seconds

coordinator will visit your home. One engineer will set up loudspeakers outside while another moves through your

2 minutes, 46 seconds

rooms with a microphone. The session lasts about an hour. The speakers are loud, so we recommend relocating pets

2 minutes, 54 seconds

and children. If your home averages 45 dB or greater, you’ll move on to step four. Homes below this level may still qualify for limited treatments.

3 minutes, 7 seconds

Step four is the design review meeting.

3 minutes, 10 seconds

This is where you will review your treatment plan and decide whether to proceed. You’ll receive a design packet about a week before your meeting held

3 minutes, 19 seconds

either virtually or in our office with your coordinator and an architect. The architect will review your treatments

3 minutes, 27 seconds

options like door styles and hardware and any code compliance pre-work. Treatments may include acoustic windows,

3 minutes, 35 seconds

doors, and ventilation systems. Not all treatments apply to every home and upgrades are not available since the

3 minutes, 43 seconds

program is grant-f funded. Because this program uses federal funds, all products must meet by American requirements. Only a few vendors make these products,

3 minutes, 55 seconds

limiting options. If your home is historic, windows and doors must match original style and materials. For

4 minutes, 4 seconds

non-historic homes, acoustic windows reduce noise by at least 5 dB. They have thicker frames, low E coating, and are

4 minutes, 13 seconds

available in white or tan. Historic homes require windows and doors that match original style while meeting

4 minutes, 21 seconds

standards. A wood sash with thicker glass may be installed while keeping the original frame. Additional window types

4 minutes, 29 seconds

such as skylights, garden windows, and fixed glass may also be treated.

4 minutes, 35 seconds

Acoustic doors come in wood, steel, or fiberglass.

4 minutes, 40 seconds

Color choice may depend on HOA. Locks include knob or lever in four finishes.

4 minutes, 48 seconds

Glass options include clear, obscured, or with grids.

4 minutes, 53 seconds

Sliding doors may also be replaced with acoustic vinyl models. Ventilation options include standalone AC, energy

5 minutes, 3 seconds

recovery ventilation, or waving mechanical treatments.

5 minutes, 7 seconds

Each provides fresh air with equipment in attics or crawl spaces and controls inside.

5 minutes, 14 seconds

Before construction, inspectors may require pre-work items. These can be small like outlet covers or larger like

5 minutes, 22 seconds

an electrical panel upgrade. This is your last chance to approve or withdraw without obligation.

5 minutes, 30 seconds

After approval, plans go to the city,

5 minutes, 32 seconds

then to public bid. Step five is the contractor measurement walk. The contractor takes precise measurements,

5 minutes, 41 seconds

reviews the scope with the design team,

5 minutes, 43 seconds

and tests for lead or asbestous in work areas. The program covers abatement and

5 minutes, 49 seconds

painting if needed. All pre-work must be done before this appointment.

5 minutes, 55 seconds

Products are customuilt and take four to 6 months to manufacture.

6 minutes

Once the contractor provides the schedule, your coordinator will share your construction dates.

6 minutes, 7 seconds

Step six is the preconstruction walkthrough.

6 minutes, 11 seconds

The team will show you what needs to be done, such as moving furniture, covering items, removing blinds, and securing

6 minutes, 18 seconds

pets. During construction, there will be dust, so cover your furniture with plastic. Security systems must be removed and reinstalled by you.

6 minutes, 30 seconds

Curtains, shutters, and blinds must be removed if they are inside the window frame.

6 minutes, 36 seconds

If your home is a rental, please include your tenant in this meeting as they will be expected to prepare the home. A checklist will be provided.

6 minutes, 46 seconds

Step seven is construction.

6 minutes, 49 seconds

On day one, the inspector checks that your home is prepared.

6 minutes, 54 seconds

If your home is not prepared, the contractor will not be responsible for damages.

7 minutes, 1 second

Construction takes 10 to 30 business days, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

7 minutes, 9 seconds

A lock box may be used if you cannot be home.

7 minutes, 14 seconds

Inspectors will ensure work meets standards and your design. Any window removed will be secured that same day.

7 minutes, 23 seconds

Your house will always be left weathertight and secure.

7 minutes, 30 seconds

Step eight is the post construction walk through. The team will explain how to use and maintain your new products and

7 minutes, 38 seconds

give you a warranty packet. Maintaining treatments and handling warranty claims are your responsibility.

7 minutes, 46 seconds

We will also ask you to complete a short survey which helps us improve the program. Some homes may require post

7 minutes, 53 seconds

acoustical testing. Finally, months later, you will receive a letter from the county assessor.

8 minutes

Although your home will not be reassessed for higher taxes, you must complete and return the form.

8 minutes, 7 seconds

Instructions are included with your warranty packet.

8 minutes, 11 seconds

That was a lot of information, and we encourage you to revisit this video on our website anytime. If you have

8 minutes, 18 seconds

specific questions, your coordinator will answer them during your assessment appointment. On behalf of our team of

8 minutes, 25 seconds

nearly 30 people, thank you for learning about the quieter home program.

8 minutes, 30 seconds

We are proud to serve you and look forward to working with you and your family.

QHP Process & Steps

Homeowners interested in the Quieter Home Program must submit a Participant Application. Once your application has been returned to the Program, your home will be placed on the General Waiting List. Priority is given to those in the loudest noise impacted areas and with the longest length of ownership.

Participant Application Contact Us

This initial meeting introduces the Quieter Home Program (QHP), outlining what to expect in each step of the process. It’s your opportunity to learn about eligibility, treatments, and overall project timeline.

Program Documents

Download County Assessor Letter
Download Homeowner Participation Agreement
Download Application (PDF Version)
Download Sample Avigation Easement
Download QHP Programmatic Agreement
Link to QHP Realtor Information Brochure
Download SAN Noise Disclosure Statement

Frequently Asked Questions

Are multi-family and condo buildings eligible?

Can I purchase my own hardware for the contractor to install?

Do I get my choice of product styles and colors?

Do I have to attend all the meetings?

Do I have to be present for the entire construction duration or can a friend or family member be present for me during construction?

Does the Program cost me anything?

Does the Quieter Home Program provide maintenance on the products installed?

How do I know all my Quieter Home construction is up to code?

How do I know if my home is eligible?

How do I know my property will be safe during construction?

How I do prepare for construction?

How long does construction take on a home?

How long does the Program take?

How much quieter will my home be after my construction is completed?

I initially declined to participate in the Program, but I now want to participate. Am I still eligible?

I recently installed new windows and doors, and it looks like my home is eligible for the Program. Can I get reimbursed?

I rent my property, is it still eligible?

If I don't like what's offered, can I upgrade and pay the difference?

If I sell my home after I apply, does the new owner go to the bottom of the waiting list?

Is there a workmanship warranty?

My home is not within the Program Boundary, will it be eligible for the Quieter Home Program in the future?

What if I'm new to the Quieter Home area, or decide to rent out my house?

Who are the Vendors?

Will construction occur on holidays?

Will my property be reassessed from the new construction?

Quieter Home Vendors

QHP Vendors

CategoryTypeVendor NamePhoneWebsite
WindowsVinylPrime Window Systems800-375-5570www.primewindowsys.com
WindowsVinylAMSCO562-204-6949www.amscowindows.com
WindowsWoodT.M. Cobb*951-248-2440www.tmcobb.com
WindowsSteelSt. Cloud Windows800-383-9311www.stcloudwindow.com
WindowsSteelVancouver Door Co.888-801-9255www.wausauwindow.com
WindowsSteelCustom Window, Model 8300877-678-2983www.wausauwindow.com
DoorsVinyl SlidingPrime Window Systems800-375-5570www.primewindowsys.com
DoorsVinyl SlidingAMSCO562-204-6949www.amscowindows.com
DoorsWood SwingingKarona Door by Jeld-Wen800-829-9233www.karonadoor.com
DoorsWood SwingingT.M. Cobb*951-248-2440www.tmcobb.com
DoorsWood SwingingVancouver Door Co.888-801-9255www.vancouverdoorco.com
DoorsSteel SwingingRepublic Doors and Frames800-733-3667www.republicdoor.com
DoorsSecondaryMon-Ray, Inc.800-544-3646www.monray.com
MechanicalCondenserYork877-874-7378www.york.com
MechanicalCondenserTrane704-655-4000www.trane.com

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San Diego, California 92138-2776

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