Are you carbon zero ready? 

In order to reduce the energy needed to heat and/or cool a building, we need to move away from fossil fuel heating. 
 
Ahead of the introduction of the Future Homes Standard in 2025, changes have come into force regarding Building Regulations to improve energy efficiency. 
 
These changes might affect both residential and commercial property developments, planning applications and building notices that you are starting now and apply to new build developments, as well as renovations and extensions to existing buildings. 
 
As part of a long-term net zero carbon emission target, changes to Part L (Conservation of fuel and power) of Building Regulations came into force on 15 June 2022. They require higher performance targets as CO2 emissions are reduced by 31% for dwellings and 27% for other buildings – with a new emphasis on low carbon heating systems. 
 
If you gained planning permission under the old regulations, before 15 June 2022 work must have been started by 15 June 2023 or the new regulations will apply. 
 
What does this mean for you new builds? 
 
Since 15 June 2022 all new homes must produce 31% less carbon dioxide emissions than previous standards. 
 
The building will be assessed based on a set of targets upon which the final construction will be expected to achieve. 
 
Use of materials will be affected and the installation of gas central heating boiler systems will no longer be permitted. A range of alternatives such as electric heating powered by solar and wind, air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps and infrared heating panels are widely available and as the technology improves, the prices are being driven down. 
 
Why is this so crucial? 
Properties account for around 20% of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. To achieve the 2050 carbon reduction targets, it is vital that the homes we are building perform as we predict at the design stage. 
 
What does this mean for home improvements? 
The Building Regulations also include new standards to reduce energy use and carbon emissions when making home improvements. Therefore, the same rules apply to extensions and renovations as new build properties. 
 
What is Part L of the Building Regulations? 
Part L of the Building Regulations deals with the Conservation of Fuel and Power to house extensions, ensuring good thermal insulation to all external facades, to improve thermal efficiency, heating and waste management. 
 
Existing buildings 
The building regulations only apply to new work and there is no general requirement to upgrade all existing buildings to meet these standards. However, we would be happy to advise if you are planning to improve energy efficiency in your home or business premises. 
 
Architect’s advice 
As an architect it is our responsibility to find ways to address any performance gaps between the design and construction and the points at which materials meet, i.e. joints in windows and walls, doors, lintels etc, are the places we need to focus our attention to reduce heat loss. 
 
All of Eznat Architecture’s projects are expected to be fully compliant with these changes so by working with us, you won’t need to worry whether or not your property development or building project will be affected. 
 
If you are planning an extension to your current building or you would like some advice, we’d love to hear from you. Please call 01482 778050 or email enquiry@eznat.co.uk
 
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