Changes to the Building Regulations

Building Regulations Document update - Changes and New Editions to the suite of Approved Documents

Changes to Approved Documents F and L

As of 15 June 2022, the above guidance will change due to the Building Regulations etc. (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2021 and the following two approved documents will then come in to force: ·

• Approved Document L, Conservation of fuel and power, Volume 1: Dwellings ·

• Approved Document L, Conservation of fuel and power, Volume 2: Buildings other than dwellings

This update to the building regulations in relation to the conservation of fuel and power highlights a significant uplift to existing energy efficiency requirements. These changes to improve energy efficiency across the board give a strong starting point towards the proposed Future Homes Standard, due to be introduced by government in 2025.

As of 15 June 2022, the above guidance will change due to the Building Regulations etc. (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2021and the following two approved documents will be in force: ·

• Approved Document F: (2022) Conservation Volume 1 applies to dwellings ·

• Approved Document F: (2022) Conservation Volume 2 applies to buildings other than dwellings

To find out more about these changes to Parts L and F please click the links below

Changes to Approved Documents F and L 2022 Bulletin

Part L & F Extensions and Alterations Technical guide

New Approved Document O and S

• Approved Document O: Overheating

The new Part O comes into effect on 15 June 2022 and applies to new dwellings, institution or any other building containing one or more rooms for residential purposes (other than a room in a hotel) The purpose of this regulation is to reduce indoor overheating by: ·

1. Limiting unwanted solar gains in summer ·
2. Providing an adequate means of removing excess heat from an indoor environment

• Approved Document S: Infrastructure for charging electric vehicles

The new Part S comes into effect on 15 June 2022 and applies to new residential and non-residential buildings; buildings undergoing a material change of use to dwellings; residential and non-residential buildings undergoing major renovation; and mixed-use buildings that are either new or undergoing major renovation. The Approved Document provides technical guidance regarding the installation and charge point requirements in Part S to the Building Regulations

To find out more about the changes to Parts F & L and the New Document O & S in regards to New Dwellings please click the link below

Parts FLOS - New Dwellings

Transitional Arrangements: When to apply the changes

• The new building regulations will come into force for applications made on or after 15 June 2022.
• The new requirements will not apply to applications made prior to 15 June 2022 providing substantial building work has begun before 15 June 2023 on all aspects of the application. This gives 1 year's grace to allow commencement.
• (Note: jobs need substantial start i.e., foundations dug and poured.)
• Applications covering multiple buildings – only those individual buildings for which work is commenced in accordance with the above can take advantage of the transitional provisions.