Raising standards to protect homeowners
Consultation on changes to Building Regulations Parts L and F (Conservation of Fuel and Power/Means of Ventilation) for England and Wales
Step change to zero carbon homes
In July 2007, the Government published Building a Greener Future: Policy Statement which confirmed its intention that new homes would ultimately be designed and constructed to 'zero carbon' standards. It said that this goal would be achieved in 3 steps - a 25% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions in 2010, followed by a 44% improvement in 2013, with the final step to zero carbon being taken in 2016.
The Government held a consultation between 18 June and 17 September 2009. This outlined proposals for changes to Part L of the Building Regulations for England and Wales aimed at achieving the first step of a 25% reduction, with complementary changes to Part F.
A summary of NHBC's response is available here (pdf)
Clear understanding of fundamental changes needed
Following analysis of the comments received, the Approved Documents (ADs) that support Parts L and F will be finalised. It is expected that they will take effect from October 2010. Any transitional provisions will be confirmed in due course.
The journey towards zero carbon will be highly challenging - arguably the house-building industry's biggest ever technical challenge. The way in which homes are designed and built will have to change fundamentally.
It is important that we all have a good understanding of the proposed changes. NHBC encouraged Registered Builders to respond to the consultation, and provide a summary of our own response above.
Consultation now closed
At around 800 pages, the consultation document is lengthy because it refers to all buildings - domestic and non-domestic, both new build and work to existing buildings - and also includes additional supporting information.
The full consultation is available on the CLG website (external site)
Download a summary of the Part L/F consultation's proposals for housebuilders (pdf)
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