Importance of Building Regulations:
Builders need to perform the air tightness testing on a sample of the new building after reaching a point of construction process according to Building Regulations. The Building Regulations allows the air permeability measure to set maximum level. However the specific performance needed for every given unit will rely upon SAP or SBEM calculations. These calculations will determine if the building's Design Emission Rate (DER) is as expected and below the Target Emission Rate (TER).
Presently, Air Tightness Testing requirements of buildings are in three of the four Part L Approved Documents:
- Part L1A: (For New Dwellings)
- Part L2A: (For New Non-dwellings)
- Part L2B: (applicable to large extensions to non-dwellings)
The UK Government has set the buildings regulations with a commitment to reduce CO2 emissions from energy consumption by 60% by the year 2050. The major factors that affect energy consumption are air leakage and continuity of insulation in the design and performance of the building. Air Testing
should be performed by competent persons as per the rules stated in the building regulations. Upon reaching to the set standards only a completion certificate is issued by Building Control.
Building Regulations and Compliance Services
What Are the Key Deciding Factors for Building Regulations?
- To ensure proper structural strength Construction: We want our structures to be built in a way that can resist the pressures of natural forces, such as wind and rain. In addition, modern building regulations also require our structures to be able to withstand rough and vigorous use without being highly overstressed due to several defects that can be caused over time. We must also include compliance with fire safety and electrical and plumbing norms.
- Energy Efficiency: Building codes such as Part L in the UK strictly control our construction practices by looking for areas in establishments that will help reduce our energy use and thus, help the environment too. Part L aims to find several ways in which our buildings can cut back on carbon emissions and also save more energy resources. This will require measures such as air tightness testing; it is an extremely effective practice for insulation and renewable energy incorporation into our lives.
- Sustainable Development: Newer codes today are also helping reduce water usage (eg. Part G water calculations) and emissions.
- Indoor Environment Quality: Stricter codes and regulations in this field can guarantee that your building will provide both comfortable and healthier air. This also includes the provision of ventilation (Part F) and enforcement of regulations to keep air quality in indoor spaces at the best possible, optimal levels.
Ways in Which Southern Assessors Help Clients Stay Compliant
Southern Assessors can constantly help you with all the services that you need during the span of your project. These services will include:
- To detect and correct leaks in a certain building: First, we will work on your airtightness test. This is a requirement for all new buildings and structures according to the legal standards. Such a test procedure can reduce energy loss too; guaranteed extra comfort comes with savings when you've ensured that there'll be no energy loss in your establishments.
- SAP Calculations and EPC Services: These services now apply to residential buildings and calculating energy performance and making sure that your place meets all such energy efficiency standards is highly crucial.
- SBEM and Dynamic Simulation Modeling: These are the assessments that take care of non-residential buildings; so getting proper efficient energy systems installed in your buildings and developments and certifying that they also meet part L of the regulations can go a long way in helping you.
- Sound and Ventilation Testing: Your building's compliance with building regulations can offer multiple benefits that can include proper legal assurance, high-cost savings, better market value and environmental protection. Acoustic testing ensures that your noise levels meet generally acceptable standards, and the ventilation testing process assesses the rate and adequacy of airflow for better comfort and safety.
- Specialised Calculations and Assessments: The inclusion of quality services like overheating calculations, thermal bridging analysis and BREEAM assessments on your projects can promise you high sustainability ratings too.
Why Choose Southern Assessors?
Since Southern Assessors specialises in building regulations, we will employ advanced instruments and methodologies that can convey results tailored to the unique needs of your project. Our firm's experienced and skilled team is perfectly aware of every little nuance and can serve you, no matter where you are in the UK.
We can add great value to your overall building operation. If you want to check whether you meet the building regulations in London, Bristol or any other area in the UK, we can help you get started. Call us today to see how we can be of use!