Salus are proud to have been chosen by Energy suppiers Eon to carry out the Approved Inspector Building Regulation role for the next five years. The Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP) targets households across Great Britain, in areas of low income, to improve
energy efficiency standards, and reduce fuel bills. There are 4,500 areas
eligible for this programme. CESP is funded by an obligation on energy suppliers and
electricity generators and our role will be to oversee the external insulation upgrade on up to 15,000 properties per year.
CESP promotes a “whole house” approach i.e. a package of energy efficiency
measures best suited to the individual property. The programme is delivered
through the development of community-based partnerships between Local
Authorities (LAs), community groups and energy companies, via a house-by-house,
street-by-street approach. This partnership working allows CESP to be
implemented in a way that is best suited to individual areas and coordinated
with other local and national initiatives. Up to 400 schemes are expected,
benefiting around 90,000 homes and saving nearly 2.9m tonnes of CO2
emissions. CESP is expected to deliver annual average fuel bill savings for
those households involved of up to £300.
Friday 15 June 2012
Thursday 31 May 2012
Changes to the Energy Performance of Buildings Framework
Policy Update 1 – the new look domestic Energy Performance Certificate
Energy Performance Certificates have been in place since 2007. They provide an assessment of a building’s energy efficiency on an A-G scale and a set of recommendations that can improve the building’s energy efficiency.
Research has shown, however, that many consumers find it difficult to understand their Energy Performance Certificate. This is because it contains too much jargon and technical language, it is too long and the information is presented in a confusing way. This results in consumers not acting on their Energy Performance Certificate’s recommendations.
DCLG have therefore completely revised the domestic Energy Performance Certificate, taking account of research conducted by Consumer Focus last year.
The new look Energy Performance Certificate is shorter, uses plain English throughout and has a significantly improved design and layout.
Its primary focus is on the potential costs and savings of different energy efficiency measures, rather than CO2 emissions.
The revised Energy Performance Certificate also signposts consumers to the Green Deal, which is due be introduced later in 2012 and identifies those improvements which can potentially be funded through the Green Deal.
By making the Energy Performance Certificate a better product which is easily understood, it is hoped consumers are more likely to implement some or all of the recommended improvements, which could considerably reduce their fuel bills.
The new look domestic Energy Performance Certificate. - http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/1790388.pdf
Policy Update 1 – the new look domestic Energy Performance Certificate
Energy Performance Certificates have been in place since 2007. They provide an assessment of a building’s energy efficiency on an A-G scale and a set of recommendations that can improve the building’s energy efficiency.
Research has shown, however, that many consumers find it difficult to understand their Energy Performance Certificate. This is because it contains too much jargon and technical language, it is too long and the information is presented in a confusing way. This results in consumers not acting on their Energy Performance Certificate’s recommendations.
DCLG have therefore completely revised the domestic Energy Performance Certificate, taking account of research conducted by Consumer Focus last year.
The new look Energy Performance Certificate is shorter, uses plain English throughout and has a significantly improved design and layout.
Its primary focus is on the potential costs and savings of different energy efficiency measures, rather than CO2 emissions.
The revised Energy Performance Certificate also signposts consumers to the Green Deal, which is due be introduced later in 2012 and identifies those improvements which can potentially be funded through the Green Deal.
By making the Energy Performance Certificate a better product which is easily understood, it is hoped consumers are more likely to implement some or all of the recommended improvements, which could considerably reduce their fuel bills.
The new look domestic Energy Performance Certificate. - http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/1790388.pdf
Monday 30 April 2012
Proposed Changes to Building Regulations, Parts A, B, C, K, M, N, P, Access Statements, Security, Changing Places and Regulation 7
Coming into effect April 2013..The governments consultation relating to the proposed changes to the above closed on 27th April 2012, below is a summary of these changes:
Part A - To align with the Euro code documents, references to British Standards removed, Euro codes added, However, since the British Standards are unlikely to become significantly outdated, until sometime after 2015, BS designed projects could still be used to demonstrate compliance, probably considerably longer for small scale developments.
The most significant changes to the technical guidance relating to area of risk for Disproportionate collapse and to winds speed maps orographic zones.
Considerations for amending guidance on strip foundations, measuring the effects of recovering roofs against the covering the roof was originally designed for, in addition where roofs are recovered 15% lighter (or more) to account for increase possibility of uplift. The remaining changes are very minor.
Part B and changes to Local Acts -
Surface spread of Flame to decorative wall coverings presently most non domestic wall coverings are rated as Class 0, however under the European classification they would likely be rated as Class C, therefore limiting their acceptability. The table is to be amended to ensure that there is no disadvantage.
Changes to the restrictions on TPb lighting diffusers to recognise their lighting efficiency qualities whilst not compromising fire safety.
Local Acts, It is proposed to repeal all fire related local acts such as Leicestershire, Merseyside, Berkshire, Hampshire, etc. There are minor sections repealed relating to the London Building Act, but in general no changes in respect of requirements to incorporate additional measures to tall buildings, etc within inner London.
Part C - incorporation of Radon maps is the most significant change proposed.
Parts K, M and N. there are area where duplication and contradicting guidance exist within these Approved Documents, it is therefore proposed to incorporate Parts K and N into one - a new look Approved Document K- to be retitled Protection from falling, collision & impact and Safety glazing. Approved Document N will be withdrawn. Changes to Part M will be through an amendment slip rather than a new Approved Document.
There is a clarifying statement proposed to delete all previous text relating to The DDA and introducing the effect and separation between Part M and The Equality Act 2010 and the Disability Regulations 2010.
The Guidance within Approved Document M, where followed, tends to demonstrate compliance with Part M of the Building Regulations, this is not necessarily compliance with obligations under the Equality Act. This is because service providers and employers are required by the Equality Act to consider any feature which might place a person at a substantial disadvantage. This might include designing or adjusting features which are outside the scope of Part M.
The 10 year exemption for associations and service providers from the duty to make reasonable adjustments is provided the features are in accordance with the objectives, design considerations and provisions within the edition of Approved Document M applicable at the time building work was carried out. The text goes on to stress that this is not a blanket exemption from the duties under the Equality Act and that the exemption is from making reasonable adjustments where built in strict accordance with AD M and that service providers will still need to consider the needs of disabled features which are outside the scope of AD M and that it is applicants, not building control bodies to determine how these obligations are met. It should also be noted that the exemption for employers was revoked in the 2004 Approved Document M guidance.
Access statements are being clarified that they are part of submissions to demonstrate compliance that varies from that within the Approved Document, the remaining matter cover minor amendments to the text and some diagrams.
Domestic Security - There are currently no requirements for Domestic security, the consultation considered this inclusion, however it is likely to be deferred, relying upon individuals to determine the extent of security measures, based upon individual circumstances and localised crime.
The Clg recognises the value of changing places for people with profound and multiple disabilities, and asks whether the guidance within the new approved Document should ENCOURAGE increased inclusion.
Regulation 7 is to be amended to give confirmation that it applies across all parts of the Building Regulations, clarifies the distinction between materials and products, encouraging the CE marking, but not making this mandatory.
Part P and the competent persons scheme is also being reviewed with a possibility to follow a similar route to Gas Safety or competence based upon individual competence rather than the formal Part P scheme which can deter individuals.
Part A - To align with the Euro code documents, references to British Standards removed, Euro codes added, However, since the British Standards are unlikely to become significantly outdated, until sometime after 2015, BS designed projects could still be used to demonstrate compliance, probably considerably longer for small scale developments.
The most significant changes to the technical guidance relating to area of risk for Disproportionate collapse and to winds speed maps orographic zones.
Considerations for amending guidance on strip foundations, measuring the effects of recovering roofs against the covering the roof was originally designed for, in addition where roofs are recovered 15% lighter (or more) to account for increase possibility of uplift. The remaining changes are very minor.
Part B and changes to Local Acts -
Surface spread of Flame to decorative wall coverings presently most non domestic wall coverings are rated as Class 0, however under the European classification they would likely be rated as Class C, therefore limiting their acceptability. The table is to be amended to ensure that there is no disadvantage.
Changes to the restrictions on TPb lighting diffusers to recognise their lighting efficiency qualities whilst not compromising fire safety.
Local Acts, It is proposed to repeal all fire related local acts such as Leicestershire, Merseyside, Berkshire, Hampshire, etc. There are minor sections repealed relating to the London Building Act, but in general no changes in respect of requirements to incorporate additional measures to tall buildings, etc within inner London.
Part C - incorporation of Radon maps is the most significant change proposed.
Parts K, M and N. there are area where duplication and contradicting guidance exist within these Approved Documents, it is therefore proposed to incorporate Parts K and N into one - a new look Approved Document K- to be retitled Protection from falling, collision & impact and Safety glazing. Approved Document N will be withdrawn. Changes to Part M will be through an amendment slip rather than a new Approved Document.
There is a clarifying statement proposed to delete all previous text relating to The DDA and introducing the effect and separation between Part M and The Equality Act 2010 and the Disability Regulations 2010.
The Guidance within Approved Document M, where followed, tends to demonstrate compliance with Part M of the Building Regulations, this is not necessarily compliance with obligations under the Equality Act. This is because service providers and employers are required by the Equality Act to consider any feature which might place a person at a substantial disadvantage. This might include designing or adjusting features which are outside the scope of Part M.
The 10 year exemption for associations and service providers from the duty to make reasonable adjustments is provided the features are in accordance with the objectives, design considerations and provisions within the edition of Approved Document M applicable at the time building work was carried out. The text goes on to stress that this is not a blanket exemption from the duties under the Equality Act and that the exemption is from making reasonable adjustments where built in strict accordance with AD M and that service providers will still need to consider the needs of disabled features which are outside the scope of AD M and that it is applicants, not building control bodies to determine how these obligations are met. It should also be noted that the exemption for employers was revoked in the 2004 Approved Document M guidance.
Access statements are being clarified that they are part of submissions to demonstrate compliance that varies from that within the Approved Document, the remaining matter cover minor amendments to the text and some diagrams.
Domestic Security - There are currently no requirements for Domestic security, the consultation considered this inclusion, however it is likely to be deferred, relying upon individuals to determine the extent of security measures, based upon individual circumstances and localised crime.
The Clg recognises the value of changing places for people with profound and multiple disabilities, and asks whether the guidance within the new approved Document should ENCOURAGE increased inclusion.
Regulation 7 is to be amended to give confirmation that it applies across all parts of the Building Regulations, clarifies the distinction between materials and products, encouraging the CE marking, but not making this mandatory.
Part P and the competent persons scheme is also being reviewed with a possibility to follow a similar route to Gas Safety or competence based upon individual competence rather than the formal Part P scheme which can deter individuals.
Monday 2 April 2012
2012 Consultation - proposed changes to the Building Control System
The governments consultation relating to the proposed changes to the Building control System closes on 27th April 2012, the upshot is an improvement to efficiency in the system and encouraging developers and interested parties to take a greater responsibility, listed below is a summary of the proposals:
- To require local authorities to issue completion certificates (where work complies) and within a specified period, proposed at not more than 8 weeks.
- Amending the wording on completion/ final certificates to make it clearer of the effect of such certificates.
- Replacing Local Authority statutory notifications with a service plan concept agreed between the LA and person carry out the work.
- Removing the requirement for a Warranty provider where Approved Inspectors are the Building Control Body for new and converted developments for sale or rent.
- Extending the time limit for Local Authorities to prosecute from two years to three and extending the time limit from 6months to 1 year from the time that sufficient evidence to be available.
- Increasing the fine for prosecutions (currently level 5 - £5000 each)..amount yet to be decided.
- Extending the time limit to rectify contraventions from 1 year to 3.
- Introduction of Civil sanctions for contraventions, including fixed monetary penalties, Variable monetary penalties, Compliance notices, Restoration notices, stop notices and enforcement undertaking.
- Extending further the competent persons schemes framework - particularly to support the introduction of the Green Deal, in addition possibly introducing specialist third party certification, on example being considered is the Structural Engineers Register.
- And Finally there is consideration being given to introducing Appointed Persons on a voluntary basis to act as an interface between on site construction and Building Control.
Tuesday 27 March 2012
Part L - Consequential Improvements for existing buildings
The first part of the DCLG's consultation relating to Consequential improvements of existing buildings closes today (27th March 2012), here is a list of some of the aspects that are being considered...it is a consultation, so some elements may change.
The underpinning element is a new initiative, The Green Deal, a flagship policy for considerable reduction of building emissions, this allows the implementation of these consequential works at no upfront costs to householders.
The underpinning element is a new initiative, The Green Deal, a flagship policy for considerable reduction of building emissions, this allows the implementation of these consequential works at no upfront costs to householders.
- The Green Deal framework is designed to be in place by October 2012, to coincide with the proposed consequential improvements implementation.
- To incorporate consequential improvements within Dwellings below 1000M2 where extensions are added.
- To apply consequential improvements trigger to SPECIFIC controlled services, ie replacement of Boilers or Windows.
- To apply consequential improvements in non domestic extensions or increases in habitable spaces within non-domestic buildings below 1000M2
- The proposals sets out that the building occupier should demonstrate to their Building Control Body how they have demonstrated compliance.
- Development of the competent persons schemes to incorporate these measures as part of the compliance route.
- Part L is proposed to be implemented on a phased basis.
Timetable of implementation:
Regulations on non domestic extension consequential improvements laid before parliament, Summer 2012
Domestic Consequential improvements come into force October 2012.
Regulations on New Build standards and non domestic consequential improvements laid before parliament, April 2013.
New Build standards and non domestic consequential improvements come into force October 2013.
Domestic boiler and window replacement consequential improvements come into force, April 2014.
The New Build Standard consultation closes 27th April 2012.
Friday 3 February 2012
Building Regulations out for consultation
The following Building Regulations related consultations have now been posted on the CLG website at: http://www.communities.gov.uk/corporate/publications/consultations/
Consultation on changes to the Building Regulations in England: Section one -
Introduction to the consultation package and proposals on Parts A, B, C, K, M
and N, Access Statements, security, Changing Places toilets and Regulation 7
Thispublication relates to the 2012 Building Regulations Consultation Section one
proposals on Parts A, B, C, K, M and N, Access Statements, security, Changing
Places toilet and Regulation 7
Consultation on changes to the Building Regulations in England: Section two -
Part L (Conservation of fuel and power)
Thispublication relates to the 2012 Building Regulations Consultation Section two
proposals on Part L (Conservation of fuel and power).
Consultation on changes to the Building Regulations in England: Section three -
Part P (Electrical safety - dwellings)
This consultation paper sets out detailed proposals on Part P, and is Section three
of four, relating to the 2012 Building Regulations consultation exercise
Consultation on changes to the Building Regulations in England: Section four -
the building control system
Thispublication relates to the 2012 Building Regulations Consultation, Section
four, proposals on the building control system
Salus Approved Inspectors will be responding to the consultations and hope that your own organisations will also do so, these changes affect all of us in Construction.
Consultation on changes to the Building Regulations in England: Section one -
Introduction to the consultation package and proposals on Parts A, B, C, K, M
and N, Access Statements, security, Changing Places toilets and Regulation 7
Thispublication relates to the 2012 Building Regulations Consultation Section one
proposals on Parts A, B, C, K, M and N, Access Statements, security, Changing
Places toilet and Regulation 7
Consultation on changes to the Building Regulations in England: Section two -
Part L (Conservation of fuel and power)
Thispublication relates to the 2012 Building Regulations Consultation Section two
proposals on Part L (Conservation of fuel and power).
Consultation on changes to the Building Regulations in England: Section three -
Part P (Electrical safety - dwellings)
This consultation paper sets out detailed proposals on Part P, and is Section three
of four, relating to the 2012 Building Regulations consultation exercise
Consultation on changes to the Building Regulations in England: Section four -
the building control system
Thispublication relates to the 2012 Building Regulations Consultation, Section
four, proposals on the building control system
Salus Approved Inspectors will be responding to the consultations and hope that your own organisations will also do so, these changes affect all of us in Construction.
Thursday 5 January 2012
DCLG clarifies Equality Act replacement of DDA, Part M and 10 year exemption
Dclg has issued a circular relating to clarification of the The Equality Act 2010 in that it brings together and replaces existing equalities legislation including the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA).
The Equality Act 2010 harmonised existing provisions into a single streamlined framework of equalities legislation. In consequence, the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, referred to on page 7 of the 2004 edition of Approved Document M (AD M – Access to and use of buildings) has been repealed. The text of the Equality Act 2010 is available at the link below; http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents
The Equality Act requires reasonable adjustments to be made in relation to accessibility. In practice, this means that due regard must be given to any specific needs of likely building users that might be reasonably met.
Compliance with the requirements of Part M does not therefore signify compliance with the much broader obligations and duties set out in the Equality Act. This is a source of frequent misunderstanding.
However, service providers, public authorities carrying out their functions, and associations will continue to benefit from a 10 year exemption, from the date of completion, from the need to make reasonable adjustments to those physical features which comply with the requirements of Part M, in certain circumstances, as described below.
This is not a blanket exemption from duties under the Equality Act, and relates only to those specific features built in accordance with AD M (ramps to facilitate access being one such example). As with all other types of building work, service providers will still need to consider the needs of disabled people which are outside the scope of AD M but which would be subject to specific duties under the Equality Act.
The full content of the explanitary circular is below:
http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/divletterequalitiesact
The Equality Act 2010 harmonised existing provisions into a single streamlined framework of equalities legislation. In consequence, the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, referred to on page 7 of the 2004 edition of Approved Document M (AD M – Access to and use of buildings) has been repealed. The text of the Equality Act 2010 is available at the link below; http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents
The Equality Act requires reasonable adjustments to be made in relation to accessibility. In practice, this means that due regard must be given to any specific needs of likely building users that might be reasonably met.
Compliance with the requirements of Part M does not therefore signify compliance with the much broader obligations and duties set out in the Equality Act. This is a source of frequent misunderstanding.
However, service providers, public authorities carrying out their functions, and associations will continue to benefit from a 10 year exemption, from the date of completion, from the need to make reasonable adjustments to those physical features which comply with the requirements of Part M, in certain circumstances, as described below.
This is not a blanket exemption from duties under the Equality Act, and relates only to those specific features built in accordance with AD M (ramps to facilitate access being one such example). As with all other types of building work, service providers will still need to consider the needs of disabled people which are outside the scope of AD M but which would be subject to specific duties under the Equality Act.
The full content of the explanitary circular is below:
http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/divletterequalitiesact
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