The building industry in the United Kingdom is subject to evolving regulations aimed at enhancing energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and improving indoor comfort levels. These changing regulations significantly influence the design and construction of new homes, particularly concerning indoor climate solutions.
Today in the next part of our weekly industry insight series Tony Croke, Product Manager for Indoor Climate Solutions in Wavin UK & Ireland, examines the impact of shifting building regulations on indoor climate solutions in new build homes in the UK, considering advancements in technology, materials, and design strategies to meet regulatory requirements.
Overview of Changing Building Regulations
Recent updates and new revisions to building regulations in the UK are changing how we think about approaching indoor climate management systems in new buildings, such as the Building Regulations Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power), Part F (Ventilation), and Part G (Sanitation, Hot Water Safety, and Water Efficiency).
This report highlights the objectives of these regulations, including energy efficiency targets, reduction of carbon emissions, and enhancement of indoor air quality and comfort levels.
Influence on Indoor Climate Solutions
Energy Efficiency Standards: Stricter energy efficiency standards are now starting to influence the selection of heating, ventilation systems, insulation materials, and building envelope design to minimise heat loss and energy consumption. In 2025 the key targets for the construction industry are to reduce whole-life greenhouse gas emissions in the built environment by 50% Reduce construction time (measured from conception to completion) by 50% Reduce whole-life costs for built assets by 33% Reduce the trade gap on construction products by 50%
Ventilation Requirements: The impact of ventilation regulations on indoor air quality, moisture control, and occupant health cannot be avoided and emphasises the careful adoption of mechanical ventilation systems & heat recovery ventilation MVHR.
Thermal Comfort: Integration of passive design principles, such as orientation, shading, and natural ventilation, to optimise thermal comfort in new build homes while complying with building regulations.
Sustainable practices: Changing regulations are a growing trend towards sustainable building practices, including the use of renewable energy sources, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems, to meet regulatory sustainability targets and reduce environmental impact.
Technological Advancements and Innovations
Smart Home Technologies: The role of smart thermostats, occupancy sensors, and building automation systems are proven to enhance energy efficiency and indoor comfort levels in new build homes, aligning with regulatory requirements.
High-Performance Building Materials: Advancements in insulation materials, glazing technologies, and air barrier systems aimed at improving thermal performance and air tightness improve the energy efficiency of a dwelling but indoor air quality, and moisture management must then be addressed in compliance with building regulations.
Low Carbon Heating Systems: The adoption of low carbon heating technologies, such as heat pumps, photo voltaic & solar thermal systems, to meet renewable energy targets and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Challenges and Opportunities
Cost Implications: Address the cost implications associated with implementing advanced indoor climate solutions to meet changing building regulations, considering upfront investment versus long-term energy savings and therefore dwelling market value.
Skills and Training: Discuss the need for upskilling and training within the construction industry to ensure professionals are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to design, install, and maintain high-performance indoor climate solutions in compliance with regulations.
Consumer Awareness: Emphasise the importance of educating consumers about the benefits of energy-efficient and climate-resilient homes, empowering them to make informed decisions and demand higher standards from their new home.
Case Studies and Best Practices
Showcase examples of new build homes in the UK that successfully integrate innovative indoor climate solutions to meet or exceed regulatory requirements while prioritising occupant comfort and sustainability highlight best practices in design, construction, and operation that can serve as models for future developments and inspire industry stakeholders to embrace a holistic approach to building performance.
The evolving landscape of building regulations in the UK is driving the adoption of advanced indoor climate solutions in new build homes, with a focus on energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant comfort. By leveraging technological advancements, sustainable practices, and innovative design strategies, the construction industry has the opportunity to create higher market value homes that not only comply with regulatory standards but also enhance the quality of life for occupants and contribute to a more sustainable built environment.
References
[1] HM Government. (2022). Building Regulations.
[2] UK Green Building Council. (2022). Policy Priorities: Part L and Part F of the Building Regulations.
[3] Energy Saving Trust. (2022). Building regulations for new homes in England.
[4] Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE). (2022). TM52: The Limits of Thermal Comfort: Avoiding Overheating in European Buildings.
[5] Zero Carbon Hub. (2022). Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality in New Homes: A Review of Policy and Practice in England.
[6] Building Research Establishment (BRE). (2022). The Future of Heating: Meeting the Challenge.
[7] Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). (2022). Climate Emergency Tool
Indoor Climate Solutions at Wavin
At Wavin, our purpose is to build healthy sustainable environments. Our tailored indoor climate solutions feature our market leading systems and products including underfloor heating, heat interface units, MVHR and single controls (interfacing with all of these technologies). They provide the following benefits:
- Improved energy efficiency
- Low maintenance
- More space and design freedom
- Compatible with all floor types and coverings
- Comfortable environments with even heat and less dust
- Full zone control
- Flexible solutions including installation and after-sales support
- Design and system selection support
- Wavin’s extensive experience in residential projects as the market leader in Europe
