From the 15th June, there has been an update in Building Regulations that can significantly impact self-builders or people updating their existing homes.

The government first announced this change in December 2021 as part of a £6.6 million investment into improving the energy efficiency of buildings to meet their net-zero commitments. Currently, in the UK, heating and powering buildings make up around 40% of total energy use across the UK so from the 15th June, the government have updated building regulations to ensure all new homes produce 30% less carbon dioxide emissions than current standards. But what does this mean for homeowners? In this blog, we delve deeper into what this means for homeowners looking to make changes to their homes.

What building regulations does this affect?

Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power)

This includes updated insulation requirements that will be assessed under a new Standard Assessment Procedure. For existing homes if you are looking to get new windows or doors, for example, a new minimum fabric efficiency standard will apply. There are also new rules for the amount of glazing included in extension builds, in addition to improvements for lighting design and a new low flow temperature requirement for heating systems. In more general terms, this means that across-the-board changes to your home will be more expensive than previously but lead to larger savings in heating bills and lower your home's carbon footprint in the long term.

Part F (Ventilation)

The change in this part of building regulations was intended to make it easier for homeowners to understand the impact of ventilation in a home. Mandated checklists have been introduced to make it easier to install mechanical ventilation products and include guidance on why ventilation is important. New recommendations have also been introduced to ensure replacement windows are fitted with trickle vents rather than alternative forms of ventilation such as air bricks.

Why have they been updated and what does it mean?

The update in building regulation is another step towards the Future Home Standard, which will introduce changes to make buildings more energy-efficient, however, current changes are small progressions until then. In 2023, a full consultation will take place ahead of the introduction of the standards planned for 2025. But what does this mean? In simpler terms, building regulations will be continually updated to ensure that new homes do not hinder the government's net-zero goals. Homes are expected to be more energy-efficient and release less carbon as the UK focuses on its long-term environmental impact. As a result of making homes more efficient, the construction costs are likely to be higher initially, but should be recouped by greater energy efficiency in the longer term.

At Arc Design Services, we specialise in architectural design, dedicated to offering a fresh and exciting approach to every project. With this in mind, Arc Design Services can help you navigated the new building regulations, whether you are extending, renovating, or building your home from scratch. Contact our experts today at Arc Design Services at www.archdesignservices.net or 0161 928 4433.