Building Regulations Update August 2022

It has been a year of change for the building regulations in England so far in 2022. In June, a huge change came into effect with the introduction of an updated Part L and Part F, plus the introduction of a brand new Part O and Part S.

The government has now released an updated Part J. Approved Document J, which relates to combustion appliances and fuel storage systems, has been updated to include guidance on the installation of carbon monoxide alarms. The new regulations will come into effect on 1^st October 2022 subject to transitional provisions.

If work has already commenced on 1^st October 2022, you can work to the previous regulations. You can also work to the previous regulations if an initial notice is submitted before this date and work commences within three months.

What does the updated Approved Document J introduce?

The new guidelines state that carbon monoxide alarms should be fitted when installing fixed combustion appliances that burn solid fuels, gas fuels, and oil fuels. Gas appliances solely used for cooking are excluded.

The guidance applies when new fixed combustion appliances are being installed in new homes and when new or replacement appliances are being installed in existing homes.

Carbon monoxide alarms should comply with British Standard BS EN 50291. They need to be powered by a battery designed to last the lifetime of the appliance and there should be a warning system in place for when the alarm is reaching the end of its life. A mains-powered alarm with fixed wiring, providing it has a sensor failure warning device included, is also acceptable.

The carbon monoxide alarm should be located in the same room as the combustion appliance on the ceiling at least 300mm away from the wall. If the appliance is installed on a wall, it should be as high up as possible, above the windows and doors but not within 150mm of the ceiling. The device should be between 1m and 3m horizontally from the appliance.

Read Approved Document J here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/combustion-appliances-and-fuel-storage-systems-approved-document-j

A recap of other building regulations updates

In June, an updated Part L came into force to try and improve the energy efficiency of homes. The new regs adopt a fabric first approach and seek to address the performance gap between design and as built.

Part F: Ventilation was also updated to include new guidance for work to existing dwellings and updated ventilation guidance for new dwellings and buildings other than dwellings.

A brand new Part O was introduced to reduce the risk of overheating in homes. Compliance with these new rules can be demonstrated with either a Simplified Method or a Dynamic Thermal Modelling Method.

Part S is also a new addition to the building regulation that provides technical guidance for the provision and installation of electric vehicle charging points.

If you’ve got a construction project of any size or type that requires building control, we’d be happy to help. Get in touch for a quote today.