Replace artex ceiling

Had a job in London with exactly same scenario. Before taking action you need to consider that the entire room will need decorating after old ceiling comes down as this is messy job. Not to mention that in the process of removing all the mess outside some other adjacent areas could be affected. It's quite disruptive job. Anyway, my client had in the books to decorate whole flat so was not bothered by the mess. Approach after stripping was insulation between joists, soundproof plasterboard (2 layers), soundproof mastic. Also because he was getting on pretty well with above neighbour, he managed to convince him to have installed in lounge and hall (above flat) sound proof panels on floor, sound proof underlay and new carpet. The above actions turned up with happy ending for all. Not saying this will be your best scenario but might help you to steer decision in right direction. There are possible other less disruptive ways but keep in mind that my job was done in the light to reduce noise as much as possible as cracks did not bothered that much my client. Good luck!

Hi there .. As you seek advice, the best way forward is to strip the ceiling and install new Acoustic panels one on top of the other: ensure you use acoustic sealant as well coz this causes a space (air gap) to trap escaping sounds from the first/top layer, these boards are similar in size to plaster boards but a bit costlier (this will not only get rid of cracks but chances are, that the artex could contain asbestos - which as we all know is detrimental to health - anything pre 1980 contained asbestos for strengthening ) for even better sound proofing use fiberglass batts inbetween the joist and then have it capped with these soundproofing boards, voila’ you got peace and quiet! You could also have your ceiling sprayed with foam: a lot of em say it's the best..before you plasterboard yr ceiling, then have it skimmed & painted: the best of best solution is to also have the upstairs floor sorted out with a thick sheet of plywood onto the floor before the next layer of flooring is installed and follow up with the procedure I mentioned for your ceiling.

The previous answer was spot on but just be aware artiex from the 1980s can contain asbestos so ifbi was you I would get a test done before any work

The short answer is if it was done prior to 2000 assume it has because there is no real way to tell without a laboratory