INFORMATION AND GUIDANCE REGARDS CHANGES TO CURRENT BUILDING REGULATIONS

CHANGES TO CURRENT BUILDING REGULATIONS

Changes were made to the Building Regulations in June 2022, however these changes were not applicable where building work started before 15 June 2023 and so will only start to have an impact now.

The changes include revisions to existing Approved Documents F and L, and two new Approved Documents: 

 The 2021 Part F Approved Document applies to new and existing properties, and the revisions introduce new measures to ensure properties receive the necessary ventilation. This will include the use of trickle vents on replacement windows, allowing air to circulate in a room and removal of polluted air. In a similar vein to Document O, this also aims to protect the health and welfare of occupants.

Part L of the Building Regulations - which applies to new-build properties, conversions and renovations – sets new standards for energy efficiency (conserving fuel and power), minimising air leakage and reducing carbon emissions. From 15 June 2023, all new homes will be expected to produce 31% less carbon emissions.

Part L is viewed as a stepping stone towards achieving the 75–80% reduction in carbon emissions, which will be required by the Future Homes and Building Standard in 2025.

New Approved Document O applies to new-build properties and aims to protect the health of occupants of the building by reducing high indoor temperatures. Measures aimed at limiting or removing excessive heat include maximum glazing limits, shading and ventilation.

New Approved Document S relates to the provision of electric car charging points (with special exemptions), which become mandatory on new-build properties with ‘associated parking spaces’. A building without a parking space will not need a charge point.