These regulations apply to all types of building work, whether it’s constructing a new property, changing the use of an existing one, or extending/altering current structures.
Recent updates to the Building Regulations have introduced several significant changes that all designers and builders should be aware of.
From June 2022, requirements for new dwelling-houses include Part S (infrastructure for charging electrical vehicles) and Part O (overheating). Furthermore, requirements relating to Part F (ventilation) and Part L (conservation of fuel and power) have become more stringent.
Looking ahead, designers and builders should be aware of further changes to requirements under Part L (BR 2010) under the Future Homes standard, coming into effect in 2027.
Changes to Building Regulations often arise in response to societal issues. Climate change was the key driver for the introduction of Part O, with the primary intention of addressing the increasing health risks associated with overheating.
Meanwhile, the Building Safety Act (2022), which enabled the introduction of the Duty-Holder Regime, was a response to the Grenfell Tower disaster in 2017.
For designers, builders and renovators, these regulations have practical implications for planning, designing and building, affecting costs and timelines. Engaging with experienced professional consultants, such as architects, energy assessors and structural engineers (and more), early on in your project, can help navigate these regulations effectively. It’s also beneficial to approach your chosen building control body (BCB), whether a registered building control approver or local authority, from the design and planning stages, so that necessary adaptions to any plans are more straightforward.
The Building Regulations are minimum standards. As such, any designer or builder and client must ensure adherence to their requirements. A building control application with a registered building control approver (initial notice) or local authority (full plans or building notice) must be made before starting any construction work. To assist any BCB in reviewing your application, it’s vital to have a comprehensive construction specification and technical design in place.
To stay compliant, you should maintain clear communication with your BCB throughout your project, including requests for site inspections, submission of amended designs and commissioning certification at the end of the project. The BCB also requires notifications at various stages, including a compliance declaration at the end of the project.
Staying informed about changes to Building Regulations involves continuous learning and engagement. Accessing continuing professional development (CPD) resources and consulting with experienced professionals can enhance your understanding and help you to gain confidence your project partners are responding to evolving requirements.
OWL Building Control Solutions’ experts have significant experience in these areas, so if you have any building control questions, or need regulatory expertise for your project, please contact us.
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