Draft changes to Building Regs: your views are needed

The impact on construction could be significant if the changes are passed. The draft Part L will encompass existing buildings and pressure testing of new buildings will be mandatory. Overall it is estimated that, if applied, the new proposals would lead to a 25% improvement in energy efficiency of new buildings, and a reduction of 25% in the CO₂ they would have otherwise emitted.

The method for calculating a building’s target CO₂ emissions will also change. The new technique determines CO₂ emissions from a notional building the same size and shape as the proposed building, complying with regulations. The emissions target for the actual building is based on this, with an added ‘improvement factor’ against a renewables benchmark. David Strong, managing director of BRE Environment comments: “This flexible approach to low and zero carbon systems is to be welcomed and gives an important pointer to the future.”

But there are areas of the draft document which raise questions. The new Part L and EPBD would be implemented through the Housing Bill and the Secure & Sustainable Buildings Act. If either of these bills fall, many of the proposals will be significantly delayed.

Another area of contention is inspection of boilers and air conditioning systems. The main concern is over the number of trained personnel available to carry out such checks.