Part L Consultation
Future Homes Part L Consultation
The government issued its proposed Future Homes Standard for consultation in October 2018. Following a review of the proposals, LETI identified the following key issues with the proposed regulation:
1. Fabric performance is likely to get worse. A home in 2020 could be less insulated than a home under 2013 Building Regulations. The use of an energy efficient heating system has the ability to mask fabric performance.
2. Carbon and primary energy factors disguise the energy efficiency of a home. The energy consumption of a home can be high but carbon emissions low. This leads to inefficient homes which appear to be performing well.
3. Local authorities will lose the ability to meet their climate emergency zero carbon commitments if they are stripped of their powers to go above and beyond the new Part L
In response, LETI produced a Key Messaging Document outlining these issues and suggesting a series of proposed key responses in line with these three problems. Over 1000 signatories signed to support the Key Messaging, including 219 organisations with almost 9000 employees, representing a diverse range of different disciplines within the construction industry.
A list of signatories was submitted alongside the Key Messaging document as part of LETI's response to the Part L consultation, with an invitation for further discussion with MHCLG
Press
Proposed changes to regulations 'will make buildings less energy efficient'
The Guardian - Oliver Wainwright
Government's plans for low-carbon homes are 'a step backwards' on climate, London Mayor warns
Edie - Sarah George
Building Regs changes ‘not fit to meet net-zero target
Building Design - Jim Dunton
Architects Declare issues rallying call on Building Regs
The Architects Journal - Will Hurst
Future Homes Part L Consultation: Key Messaging
LETI believes that by 2030 all new buildings will need to operate at Net Zero (i.e. annual net zero carbon emissions), which means that by 2025 100% of all new buildings must be designed to Net Zero.
To achieve this we need a clear plan as to how we will measure compliance with this target at design stage in a way that informs good design. To ensure ALL new buildings meet Net Zero Carbon, Approved Document Part L needs to become the legislative driver for this. We developed a Key Messaging Document in response.
Over 1000 signatories signed to support the Key Messaging, including 219 organisations with almost 9000 employees, representing a diverse range of different disciplines within the construction industry.
Organisational Signatories of the Key Messaging include: