Upcoming Changes to Part L Regualtions...
In June 2022, the UK government introduced significant updates to Part L of the Building Regulations, focusing on the conservation of fuel and power. These changes aim to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in both new and existing buildings.
Key Changes in Part L Regulations:
Increased Energy Efficiency Targets:
New Dwellings: All new homes must achieve a 31% reduction in carbon emissions compared to previous standards. burtonroofing.co.uk
Non-Domestic Buildings: New non-residential buildings are required to produce at least 20% fewer carbon emissions than those built to the previous standards. burtonroofing.co.uk
Introduction of Primary Energy Metric:
A new metric, 'primary energy,' has been introduced to measure a building's heating efficiency and the energy needed to deliver it. This metric sets a maximum limit for a dwelling's primary energy use per square meter per year. sablono.com
Stricter U-Value Requirements:
The regulations have set new U-values for walls, windows, roof lights, and doors to improve insulation and reduce heat loss. For example, the U-value for walls in new domestic builds is now 0.18 W/m²·K. insulationuk.co.uk
Enhanced Heating System Standards:
Wet central heating systems must be designed to operate at a maximum flow temperature of 55°C, facilitating the integration of low-temperature heating solutions like heat pumps. John Guest
Emphasis on Building Fabric:
A 'fabric-first' approach is encouraged, focusing on improving the building's insulation and airtightness to reduce energy demand before considering renewable energy sources. sablono.com
Implications for Builders and Homeowners:
Compliance: All new building projects and significant renovations must adhere to the updated Part L standards. This includes ensuring that building designs and materials meet the new energy efficiency and carbon emission requirements.
Documentation: Builders are required to maintain comprehensive records, including photographic evidence, to demonstrate compliance with the new regulations. sablono.com
Cost Considerations: While the initial investment in energy-efficient materials and systems may be higher, the long-term benefits include reduced energy bills and increased property value.
Looking Ahead:
These updates to Part L serve as a transitional phase leading up to the Future Homes Standard, set to be implemented in 2025. The forthcoming standard aims for a more substantial reduction in carbon emissions, with all new homes expected to be future-proofed with low-carbon solutions, such as heat pumps, achieving a reduction of 75-80% compared to current standards. Ideal Heating
The upcoming changes to building regulations will undoubtedly have a significant impact on our industry and the products we rely on. When the 2022 updates were introduced, adding insulated plasterboard to warm roofs was sufficient to meet the new requirements. With the next wave of changes on the horizon, it’s anticipated that only minimal adjustments will be necessary to stay compliant, ensuring that we continue to meet the standards while maintaining efficiency and performance.
