On 15 June 2022 changes to the Building Regulations came into force in England, with new editions of Approved Document L (conservation of fuel and power) and Approved Document F (ventilation), and a new Approved Document O on overheating in new homes. The changes were made by the Building Regulations etc. (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2021. Most coverage focused on new homes, but the changes also reach work on existing buildings.
Work to existing buildings that is caught
- Extensions must meet tighter standards for walls, roofs, floors and glazing.
- Replacement windows and doors must meet improved thermal performance.
- Renovating a roof, wall or floor can trigger a requirement to improve its insulation, where that is practical and cost effective.
- Replacing heating systems brings minimum efficiency requirements.
Ventilation matters too
Making a building more airtight without thinking about ventilation can cause condensation and mould. Approved Document F expects ventilation to be considered whenever energy efficiency work reduces the air leaking into a home. This is where many well meant upgrades go wrong.
Listed and traditional buildings
Special considerations apply to listed buildings, buildings in conservation areas and traditionally constructed buildings, where the aim is to improve energy performance as far as is reasonable without harming the building’s character or causing moisture problems. Getting that balance right needs an understanding of how the building works, which is the starting point of Historic England’s guidance on energy efficiency and historic buildings.
Plan it in
The best time to meet the new requirements is when the work is being specified, not when building control visits. See our Planning and Heritage and Major Works services, and a period block refurbished in a conservation area.