Building regulations in the construction sector act as standards to guarantee the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of buildings. Adhering to these regulations is compulsory for all new constructions and any buildings undergoing significant renovations or changes in purpose.

One of the key regulations is Part L, which emphasizes energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Part L compliance aims to lower carbon emissions, reduce energy expenses, enhance indoor air quality, and support environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

In this blog post we will cover:

1. What is Part L Compliance
2. When it was implemented
3. What are the specifics
4. Main target audiences of Part compliances
5. The risks of non-compliance

What is Part L Compliance

Part L is a building regulation that covers the ‘Conservation of Fuel and Power’ concerning both new construction projects and some refurbishment work, for dwellings and other buildings in England. It sets the standard for current and future energy performance and carbon emissions, which for the UK are a target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with any energy produced by fossil fuel offset by renewable resources.

You can access the Part L compliance document here.

When it was implemented

The implementation of Approved Documents L (volumes 1 and 2) commenced on 15 June 2022. However, a grace period has been granted until 2023 for buildings currently in the planning process. If a building notice or initial notice has been submitted before 15 June 2022, the project will still be governed by the previous regulations, provided the construction work commences before 15 June 2023.

With a second update to deliver the Future Homes Standard by 2025, it is important that roofing contractors know what Part L means for them and how to fully prepare to make the most of the rapidly approaching changes.

What are the specifics

Part L regulations set specific requirements for energy efficiency in both new and existing buildings. Here are the specifics for each category:

This type of assessment is similar to the Type 1 assessment but involves a more thorough examination of the building’s systems.

Part L requirements for new buildings

• To prevent energy waste, walls, floors, and roofs must meet airtightness and thermal performance standards.
• Each building element must have a minimum level of insulation to reduce heat loss.
• Heating and cooling systems must be installed efficiently to lower energy consumption.
• Buildings must incorporate energy-efficient lighting systems.
• Renewable energy sources should be considered in the design, with at least 10% of the building's energy coming from renewable sources.

Part L requirements for existing buildings

• When a building is renovated, the upgrades should enhance the building’s energy performance by improving insulation, installing more efficient heating systems, and reducing air leakage.
• Replacement windows must meet minimum energy performance standards.
• Replacement boilers must achieve a minimum efficiency level.
• New or replacement air conditioning systems must meet minimum energy efficiency levels.
• An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be given to the owner or tenant when a building is sold or leased. The EPC provides details on the building’s energy efficiency and suggests improvements.

Part L photographic requirements

To comply with Part L standards, a BREL (Buildings Regulations England Part L) report and photographic evidence are now required. Before construction begins, the developer must sign the as-built BREL report to confirm that the designs meet the necessary requirements.

During construction, photographic evidence must be collected to show compliance. For instance, photos should demonstrate thermal continuity in the foundations, the quality of insulation in external walls, and the building's airtightness.

Space heating or ventilation systems must be clearly labelled. Each photo should be unique to the property, with one photo per detail, unless a close-up is needed.

Furthermore, the photos must be geo-tagged, which means they must include the exact location, date, and time they were taken. This ensures a clear link between the photo and a specific physical object at a verified location, along with information about who took the image and when.

Main target audiences of Part L Compliance

For residential houses and apartments addressed in Part L Volume 1, the main audience consists of builders, developers, designers, and other professionals engaged in constructing and renovating residential properties.

For commercial buildings addressed in Part L Volume 2, the main audience includes building owners, facilities managers, and other professionals responsible for the operation and upkeep of commercial properties.

Main contractors, developers, and other construction industry professionals are key target audiences for Part L compliance. They are essential in ensuring that buildings are designed and built in accordance with the regulatory requirements.

The risks of non-Compliance

Failure to comply with Part L building regulations can have serious consequences for building owners and designers. Some of the key risks include:

• Legal Penalties: Violating Part L regulations can lead to fines and legal action, which are costly, time-consuming, and damaging to the reputations of both the building owner and designer.
• Increased Energy Costs: Non-compliant buildings tend to be less energy efficient, resulting in higher heating and cooling expenses. This inefficiency also increases greenhouse gas emissions.
• Poor Indoor Air Quality: Insufficient ventilation in non-compliant buildings can lead to poor indoor air quality, negatively impacting occupants' health and productivity.
• Decreased Property Value: Buildings that do not meet Part L energy efficiency standards may suffer from lower property values, making them harder to sell or lease and causing financial losses for the owner.

Our knowledgeable team can help with any questions you might have about Part L regulations and help you choose the right products to ensure compliance.