Building Regulations - Renovation of Flat Roofs gets revision and Extension to Competent Persons Scheme.

DCLG have issued a common sense revision to the definition of renovation relating to flat roof repairs, due to the realisation that the addition layer repair is somewhat impractical and unenforceable.

The previous definition related to adding a new layer as part of a repair to existing flat roofs over 25% which triggered the Part l upgrading expectation.

The Building (Amendment) Regulations 2011 now make it clear that where flat roofs are repaired by the addition of a layer to the existing layers over 25% of the roof area will NOT require an upgrade to the thermal properties.

A repair of this nature will no longer fall within the definition of 'building work' in Regulation 3 (1) of the Building Regulations. It will not be notifiable building work.

They also make it clear these changes do not affect the upgrading expectation relating to pitched roofs or where flat roofs are altered by the removal and replacement of layer(s).

Comes into effect 15th July 2011.

In addition a new category of the Competence Persons Scheme relating to replacement windows, rooflights and doors within buildings that are NOT dwellings. There are some exceptions such as load-bearing glass, display windows, glazed curtain walling and revolving glass doors.

PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE ENERGY PERFORMANCE OF BUILDINGS REGULATIONS

DCLG have proposed changes to make Commercial EPCs more visible and make compliance more enforceable.

The changes to the EPB Regulations can be summarised as follows:
The changes will extend the current requirements to commission an EPC that apply to residential buildings to all buildings sold or rented out;
The requirements for the provision of an EPC with written particulars are extended to all buildings sold or rented out and the option to attach the asset rating is removed; and
The regime for lodgement of EPCs and DECs on the Register is extended to air conditioning inspection reports.
There are also changes to:
2.Commissioning an EPC before marketing
3.Power to Require the Production of Documents
4.Clarifying when an EPC is required
5.Consequential changes
6.EPC Information in Written Particulars

The changes described in paragraphs numbered 2 to 4 above will have effect in relation to properties marketed after the expected coming into force date of 1st July 2011.
The change described in paragraph 6 will have effect in relation to properties marketed after of 1st October 2011.

for more details e mail - paul.meadows@salusai.co.uk