Compliance & Regulations

Module 6: Compliance & Regulations

6.1 Building Regulations (Part L – Conservation of Fuel & Power)

Part L of the UK Building Regulations sets energy efficiency standards for new and existing buildings, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and improve thermal performance.

Key Requirements:

• Part L1A (New Dwellings):

• Sets Target Emission Rate (TER) and Target Fabric Energy Efficiency (TFEE)

• Mandates minimum U-values (e.g., 0.18 W/m²K for walls, 0.13 W/m²K for roofs)

• Requires air tightness testing (≤5 m³/h.m² @50Pa)

• Part L1B (Existing Dwellings):

• Applies to extensions, renovations, and material changes

• Requires reasonable insulation upgrades (e.g., loft insulation to 270mm)

• Controls thermal bridging and glazing standards

• Part L2 (Non-Domestic Buildings):

• Includes SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) calculations

• Mandates commissioning of HVAC systems

Compliance Methods:
✔ SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) for dwellings
✔ BREL (Building Regulations England) reports
✔ Accredited Construction Details (ACDs) for thermal bridging

6.2 PAS 2035 & Retrofit Standards

PAS 2035 is the UK’s framework for energy-efficient retrofits, ensuring quality in insulation and building treatments.

Key Stages of PAS 2035:

1. Retrofit Assessment:

• Conducted by a Retrofit Assessor

• Includes dwelling condition survey, occupancy assessment

2. Medium-Term Improvement Plan:

• Prioritizes measures (e.g., insulation before heating upgrades)

3. Design & Specification:

• Handled by a Retrofit Coordinator

• Must follow TrustMark requirements

4. Installation & Monitoring:

• Only PAS 2030-certified installers permitted

• Post-installation air tightness testing & thermography

Applicable Standards:

• PAS 2030 – Covers installation quality

• BS 5250 – Manages condensation risk

• Each Home Counts – Ensures consumer protection

6.3 Quality Assurance & Inspection

Ensuring compliance requires structured checks before, during, and after installation.

A) Pre-Installation Checks:

• Verify material certifications (BBA, CE, UKCA marks)

• Confirm U-values match design specifications

• Check for structural defects (damp, cracks)

B) During Installation:

• Thermal imaging to detect gaps/misalignment

• Air tightness checks for membranes/seals

• Moisture control to prevent interstitial condensation

C) Post-Installation Verification:

• Final air test (for new builds/retrofits)

• As-built SAP calculations (for new dwellings)

• Consumer handover pack (incl. warranties, maintenance guides)

Enforcement Bodies:

• Local Authority Building Control (LABC)

• NHBC & Premier Guarantee (for new builds)

• TrustMark (for retrofits)

Conclusion

Compliance with Part L, PAS 2035, and quality checks ensures:
✔ Legal adherence
✔ Optimal energy performance
✔ Long-term building durability