Will the new 2022 Building Regulations affect my property purchase?
The updated 2022 Building Regulations came into effect in the middle of June. There are several amendments, some of which could impact your decision to purchase a property. Unless you’re looking to buy property to expand, renovate or let, they’re unlikely to affect you too much.
The main changes centre around energy usage and carbon dioxide production. Although they might seem like a bit of a nuisance, on a large scale, these changes have the potential to lead the country away from fossil-fuel dependence. The updates are a stepping-stone towards the more thorough Future Homes Standard, planned for 2025. When the time comes, these will be much stricter rules, forcing the nation onto a more energy-efficient pathway.
In this blog post, we’ll quickly run through some main talking points and explain why they might or might not change anything for you.
What are the 2022 changes to Building Regulations for energy usage? (Part L)
Overall, the statement change in terms of energy usage is summarised by the 30% drop in carbon dioxide output in all new builds. This comes alongside a 27% reduction in commercial buildings and a new maximum flow temperature for all heating systems: 55°C.
A 30% drop in carbon dioxide emissions can be relatively easily achieved by avoiding using natural gas. Of course, recent circumstances have left the country exposed in terms of its dependence on this substance, never mind its polluting status. While the government is currently pushing heat pumps, high installation costs mean this isn’t a realistic option for most homeowners. Other options are available, though.
The new cap on flow temperature for heating systems also fits into this energy reduction section. A limited peak temperature should ensure that warmth isn’t unevenly distributed throughout a home while encouraging reduced energy consumption.
What are the 2022 changes to Building Regulations for ventilation? (Part F)
New homes, renovations and extensions must now conform to stricter ventilation requirements. This certainly isn’t a bad thing. As we often talk about, ventilation is one of the most critical aspects of a property, keeping virtually everything in balance.
Many properties on the market today suffer – avoidably – due to poor ventilation. If these issues could be addressed before they even arise, it’ll save homeowners thousands in maintenance and repair costs.
Crucially, it’s also vital for any alterations or changes not to impede the ventilation of a property. This includes during the process of installing new, environmentally friendly technologies like heat pumps.
Are there any other important updates or additions?
New for this set of Building Regulations is a section on overheating (Document O), including a limit on the amount of glazing in any given room. Double- or triple-glazing has been widely touted as the be-all-and-end-all for the last couple of decades. But, while it’s great in winter, it could leave people swelteringly and dangerously hot in summer. The new regulations encourage efficient temperature regulation through ventilation instead.
You’ll also see an addition covering EV (electric vehicle) charger installation, including a price cap of £3,600, in Document S. The price cap discourages high upfront charges, which might put many people off.
To whom do the new rules apply?
The 2022 Building Regulations changes came into effect on 15 June 2022. The updated regulations affect all newly submitted property documentation and law from this date. It affects:
- New homes
- New commercial buildings
- Extensions
- Renovations
- Self-builders
- Landlords
If you submitted a request to Building Regulations that was granted before 15 June 2022, the updated regulations don’t apply to you. However, you must start work on the project before 15 June 2023, or the grace period will lapse.
The regulations apply to you if you’re building or purchasing a new build, constructing an extension or renovating part of the house. Likewise, if you buy a property and intend to rent it out, you’ll probably need to conform to the new standards.
Get GB Home Surveys to help
During a recent survey, few builders were aware of the new regulations (which are now in effect). Of course, this number will increase with time, but it’s always worth checking twice.
If you’re looking at any new builds in the coming months, GB Home Surveys will help you. Our home surveys take into account building legislation at the time of construction. While you’re unlikely to be held liable for mistakes made by construction workers or design engineers, you’re likely buying a new home to reap the benefits of low energy consumption. It makes sense that you want to ensure your new home is correctly fitted out.
The takeaway message? It’s probably time to start going electric!
GB Home Surveys is a team of highly experienced RICS chartered surveyors. For more information on our locations and how we can help with the new 2022 Building Regulations, get in touch with us at contact@gbhomesurveys.co.uk or on 03333 600 685. We look forward to hearing from you.
