Changes to Building Regulations: Are You Ready?

Changes to Building Regulations

New building regulations are going to be in effect from the 15^th of June 2023. These changes are an extension to the updates first announced in June 2022, so businesses have had a 12-month grace period to understand and adapt to the new updates.

The new regulations will apply to all projects from the 15^th of June 2023. The changes include updates to Ventilation, Fuel Power, Overheating, and electric vehicle guidance.

Meaningful work must have already commenced on your project for the changes not to apply. Otherwise, even if your notice to work was submitted before the 15^th of June 2022 but work hasn’t started yet, the changes will apply.

We will go into more detail below.

 

What are the key changes?

The 2022 changes are updates to the original Building Regulations 2010 document, which covers the construction and extension of buildings, as well as altering existing buildings (particularly when it comes to changing windows, heating systems, and changing electrics).

The most recent changes mostly impact the green energy and carbon output of new buildings. Britain is aiming to be net-zero by 2050, and these changes can help improve the energy efficiency of new and existing buildings.

The changes apply to Approved Documents F2, L1, L2, O and S 2021 editions. The full list of changes can be found here.

 

Approved Document F (Ventilation)

When energy efficiency work is done to an existing home, the ventilation must not be made any worse. If replacing windows, they should have trickle vents, which allow for a small amount of ventilation even when the window is closed.

The aim of requirement F1 is to protect the health of building occupants by providing ventilation and reducing the risk of mould and airborne pollutants.

With new builds, there has been an improved emphasis on commissioning suitable windows and doors, as well as assessing their performance when applied.

 

Approved Document L (Conservation of Fuel & Power)

This applies to conserving heat within a home and ensuring the heat sources are correct for the building.

From June 2023, for timber windows, the full standard of 1.4 W/(m2.K) or Window Energy Rating Band B applies. The energy efficiency rules for windows, doors, and walls have been tightened.

Before new heating appliances are installed, the existing system should be flushed out and cleaned.

In hard water areas, the new appliance must be protected against scale and corrosion. Domestic central heating systems should be prepared and commissioned to BS7593.

 

Approved Document O (Overheating)

Pipework must be insulated to reduce heat loss and reduce excess heat. Measures must be in place which allow excess heat to quickly leave the room.

Another main intention is to limit excess solar gain. Solar gain refers to the temperature increase due to heat from the sun, which can cause overheating during the summer months. Temperature limits sit around 20-25°C for most buildings and homes.

 

Approved Document S (Electric Vehicle Charging)

This is an aim to futureproof homes by installing the means for electric vehicle charging in new buildings, or at least allowing for the structure of easier future installation (such as the cables laid).

A £3,600 price cap per charge point will be introduced.

 

Why are the building regulations being updated?

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities says the changes ‘support us in our target to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050’.

Heating and power account for over 40% of the UK’s energy use, so changing existing buildings and increasing the efficiency of new buildings is key.

The changes are a key route to the Future Homes Standard (FHS), which will ensure that all new homes built from 2025 will produce 75-80% less carbon emissions.

Parts F and L of the Buildings Regulations are seen as the most monumental changes towards the FHS when implemented correctly.

 

 

How Speedy Can Help Reduce Carbon Emissions During Home Improvement

Speedy became the first hire company in the UK to publicly commit to net zero carbon emissions under science-based targets before 2050.

So, as there is a focus on carbon emissions and working towards net zero, it makes sense to work with a hire company that has the same aims.

 

HIRE EQUIPMENT FROM SPEEDY TODAY

 

Hiring your equipment from Speedy means you get access to the latest eco-friendly tools and technology, without needing to invest in upfront costs as a business. When the job is done, you can then off-hire the equipment, so there’s no reduction in value or a need to sell the equipment at a loss.

Hiring equipment is particularly beneficial to any self-builders or renovators carrying out work to their own homes. You have access to professional standard equipment and can keep within budget as you hire as opposed to buying the tools.

Here at Speedy, we are always on hand to offer advice on projects. Call your local service centre for guidance on the best tools for the job, and how to get the job done.

Remember to consult a professional if carrying out any major work to your home, or working with electricity, gas, and water.