Building compliance,
explained simply.
Practical guides from our accredited engineers — written for builders, developers and architects who need clear answers, not regulation jargon.
74 of 74 guides
In-Depth Guides Why First-Fix Air Testing Is a Smart Move for UK Developers
Avoid failed final air tests, costly rework and handover delays. Learn how first-fix air testing helps UK developers find air leaks early and stay Part L compliant.
Articles & Insight Ditch the Part L Photo Stress: How to Get Free Dashpivot App Access for Your Next Build
Collating photographic evidence for Approved Document Part L compliance can be a major headache for UK builders. UKBC helps ditch the stress.
In-Depth Guides Demystifying the Energy Hierarchy: How to Secure Planning Approval Without Costly Re-Designs
Stalled by local planning authorities over carbon reduction targets? Master the Be Lean, Be Clean, Be Green energy hierarchy to pass your energy statement first time.
FAQs Air & Sound Testing FAQs — Pass First Time
Read our air and sound testing FAQs. Learn how to prepare, what can cause delays, and how to improve your chances of a first-time pass.
Articles & Insight Inspiring Change: Meet the Women Driving Excellence at UK Building Compliance
Meet the women helping shape UK Building Compliance through expertise and leadership in delivering high-quality building compliance services.
In-Depth Guides Do I Need a Waste Water Heat Recovery System for My New Build?
Is a waste water heat recovery system required for a new build? Learn how WWHR affects Part L compliance, SAP, and the Future Homes Standard 2026.
In-Depth Guides Do I Need to Install a Heat Pump for My New Build?
Do you need a heat pump for your new build? Learn how Part L 2021 and Part L 2026 affect compliance, heating choices, and SAP calculations.
In-Depth Guides What Air Test Score Do I Need for My New Build?
Find out what air test score your new build needs under Part L 2026, including legal limits, SAP targets and the ideal airtightness range.
News & Articles Part O – Important Factors to Consider
Key considerations for applying Approved Document O (overheating) — when the Simplified Method falls short and a CIBSE TM59 Dynamic Thermal Model is required.
News & Articles Thermal Bridging & SAP
How thermal bridging and PSI values affect SAP calculations, why default y-values often push buildings out of Part L compliance, and when bespoke calculations are required.
Useful Links Air Tightness & Air Pressure Testing in accordance with the Passivhaus Standard
What the Passivhaus airtightness standard (n50 ≤ 0.6 ach @ 50 Pa) requires, how to achieve it, and the three-stage test programme that gives the best chance of certification.
How-To Guides How To Pass A Ventilation Test
Practical checklist for passing a Part F ventilation test first time — fan selection, ducting choices, sealing, and kitchen extraction.
How-To Guides A Basic Guide To Sound Insulation Testing
What sound insulation testing is, when Part E pre-completion testing is required, and how to prepare your site for a successful test.
News & Articles Air Pressure Testing For Dwellings
Why residential air pressure testing is required for all new-build dwellings, how it demonstrates Part L compliance, and what happens on test day.
Useful Links Building Compliance Useful Links
Curated links to the UK government departments, regulations, accreditation bodies and standards UKBC engineers reference every day.
How-To Guides Guide To Air Tightness Testing
What air tightness testing is, when it's required by Part L, and what air permeability targets you need to hit on a typical UK new-build.
How-To Guides How To Achieve Compliance
A 3-step practical guide to achieving Building Regulations compliance — air pressure testing, sound insulation testing and ventilation testing tips.
How-To Guides How To Pass An Air Tightness Test
A practical site-readiness checklist to help you pass your air tightness test first time — sealing, services, fixtures, doors and what we tape up.
Checklists Site Readiness Checklists
Pre-test site readiness checklists for air tightness testing (domestic & commercial), ventilation testing and sound insulation testing — give them to your site team before we arrive.
Checklists Some Common Faults
The most common faults UKBC engineers find on air tightness tests for domestic and commercial buildings — and how to avoid them on your project.
Legal UK Building Compliance Terms and Conditions
The standard terms and conditions that govern UK Building Compliance's services. Available to download as a PDF — contact us if you need the latest version.
News & Articles 15 Years of Building Compliance — Crunching the Numbers
15 Years of Building Compliance — Crunching the Numbers — a UK Building Compliance resource.
News & Articles 15 Years of Memories
Looking back on fifteen years of UK Building Compliance — the people, projects and milestones that built the business.
Articles & Insight 35% Carbon Reduction in London Plan
As many of you know, Part L of the Building Regulations is due to be updated as of 15th June 2022. You can read more about that
Articles & Insight Breathing Easy: The Importance of Ventilation Testing Explained
Proper ventilation is a cornerstone of healthy indoor environments, ensuring that occupants enjoy fresh air while mitigating pollutants and moisture buildup. Despite its significance, ventilation…
FAQs FAQs — Can I install a gas boiler in new builds still?
The answer is yes – but it is becoming more
Articles & Insight Changes to Part L1A
The results of the consultation into the uplift in Part L standards have now been released. Whilst not final, these give a strong indication of the direction in which things are
News & Articles Client Spotlight: Kelly Harman Oxbridge Design and Detailing Services Ltd on Working with UKBC
We're thrilled to feature one of our recent clients, Oxbridge Design and Detailing Services Ltd. Specialising in residential architectural design and structural engineering, Oxbridge has been a…
FAQs Do I have to install an Air Source Heat Pump on the new building regulations?
An air source heat pump is the most efficient and sustainable heating system meaning that you are less likely to require additional renewable technologies e.g. solar
FAQs Do I have to install solar PV for the new Part L building regulations?
However, under the updated 2021 Part L Building Regulations, gas boilers must be accompanied by some form of renewable energy to meet compliance. This is most commonly solar
Articles & Insight Energy Efficiency and Building Compliance: Why It Matters
Energy efficiency and building compliance are two intertwined concepts that play a pivotal role in the construction industry. Building compliance refers to adhering to various regulations and…
Articles & Insight Energy Efficiency Unveiled: Decoding Energy Statements with UK Building Compliance
In the United Kingdom, energy efficiency is a cornerstone of sustainable building practices, playing a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental stewardship. A key…
Articles & Insight Enhancing Compliance: UK Building Compliance’s Commitment to Efficiency and Excellence
Navigating the complexities of building regulations is a critical aspect of any construction project. At UK Building Compliance, we prioritise efficiency and excellence to streamline compliance…
FAQs FAQs — Can I build with 100mm cavities still?
The answer is yes – but in reality, it will become increasingly
News & Articles Client Spotlight: George Burton Architecture & Ecology on Working with UKBC
As UK Building Compliance celebrates 15 years of excellence, we’re thrilled to share the experiences of our valued clients. This week, we’re featuring George Burton Architecture & Ecology, a…
Articles & Insight Government launches £3bn fund to upgrade nation’s buildings
Originally written by Aaron Morby and published
Articles & Insight Home Energy Model (HEM) — The Future of Energy Assessment in the UK
get a free HEM (SAP) Calculations
Articles & Insight Home Energy Model vs SAP: What’s Changing?
With the Future Homes Standard set to be published in Autumn 2025, the Government are also introducing a new calculation methodology to support
Articles & Insight House Extension Calculations
L1B Design and As-Built SAP calculations for a proposed house extension in Charlbury — how a low U-value design and efficient heating achieved Part L compliance.
In-Depth Guides Mastering Air Pressure Testing: A Comprehensive Guide by UK Building Compliance
Air pressure testing, also known as air permeability or air tightness testing, is a crucial process in ensuring buildings are energy-efficient and comply with building regulations. This comprehensive…
Articles & Insight Maximising Energy Efficiency with an EPC: What You Need to Know
If you own a building or are planning to purchase one, maximising its energy efficiency should be a top priority. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a vital assessment that can help you…
News & Articles Myth Busters — Air Tightness Testing
Though you may be able to find common leaks without pressure testing, if you want to ensure that you have found all the leaks, and you want to give the customer that assurance, pressure testing is…
Articles & Insight Navigating Building Compliance: The Crucial Role of Testing and Certification
In the intricate world of construction, the journey from blueprints to buildings is paved with regulatory nuances. Navigating this complex landscape requires a compass of precision, and that’s where…
Articles & Insight Navigating The London Plan: A Sustainability Guide for Builders
The London Plan, first introduced in 2004 and updated several times since, lays out the development strategy for England's capital. This comprehensive plan is not only about urban growth but also…
Articles & Insight Navigating the London Plan: Compliance Strategies from UK Building Compliance
The London Plan serves as a comprehensive blueprint for the sustainable development of England's capital. First introduced in 2004 and updated periodically, it outlines strategic policies to guide…
Articles & Insight New EPC Register Q&A
The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government have now taken control of the New EPC Register. Previously, this was contracted to a company named Landmark. This change has meant that the…
Articles & Insight Part G: Water Efficiency — Everything you need to know!
A water efficiency calculation is a legal requirement set out in Part G of the building regulations. These calculations are required for all new build dwellings, as well as
Articles & Insight Part O — Dynamic Thermal Model versus Simplified Method
Since its introduction in 2022, the Approved Document Part O has become an important aspect of the Building Regulations for newly constructed domestic
Articles & Insight Part O Overheating Common Questions
Part O applies to new residential buildings only. This includes residential dwellings, and institutional dwellings (e.g., student accommodation). Share communal areas and common spaces containing…
Articles & Insight Part O Simplified Method
The simplified method is the first port of call when demonstrating compliance with Part O. This can be applied to both moderate and high-risk locations. The risk category is determined by the…
How-To Guides Preparing for the Home Energy Model: What Builders Need to Know
The Home Energy Model is set to come into effect in 2026, following the publication of the Future Homes Standard in Autumn
Articles & Insight SAP 10 / Part L 2021 — Myth Busters
This is dependent on the insulation you are using. A better performing insulation will require a smaller thickness to meet
Articles & Insight Simplify **Part O Compliance** with Our Comprehensive Guide
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In-Depth Guides The Essential Guide to UK Building Regulations Compliance
Building regulations compliance is a crucial aspect of any construction project in the UK. Understanding and adhering to the regulations ensures that buildings are safe, energy-efficient, and…
Articles & Insight The Most Common Building Compliance Failures and How to Avoid Them
Building compliance is a crucial aspect of construction projects, ensuring safety, sustainability, and adherence to regulations. However, even with the best intentions, compliance failures can occur,…
Articles & Insight TM59 Overheating Assessment — What is it?
Introduced in June 2022, the new approved document Part O has become a fundamental part of the Building Regulations for new domestic
News & Articles UKBC Celebrates 15 Years
We are delighted to announce that UK Building Compliance is celebrating 15 years of trading this September!
In-Depth Guides Understanding Mechanical Ventilation Commissioning: What You Need to Know
As building regulations continue to evolve, ensuring optimal air quality and energy efficiency has never been more important. Mechanical Ventilation Commissioning (often referred to as Ventilation…
In-Depth Guides The Sound of Compliance: Understanding Sound Insulation Testing with UK Building Compliance
In today’s construction industry, ensuring buildings meet high standards for comfort and liveability is essential. One key component of this is sound insulation, which prevents unwanted noise from…
FAQs What air test score do I need to achieve for a new build?
The standard set out in Approved Document Part L 2021 is a maximum air permeability of 8 m3 /(h·m2 ) @
FAQs What Are SAP Calculations? The Ultimate Guide
So, what are SAP calculations? SAP stands for ‘Standard Assessment Procedure’ and is the government’s method for calculating the energy performance of
FAQs What Are SBEM Calculations?
So – what are SBEM calculations? SBEM stands for ‘Simplified Building Energy Model’ and is the government’s method for calculating the energy performance of non-dwellings. These calculations are the…
FAQs What information do you require to carry out a SAP Calculation?
What information do you require to carry out a SAP
FAQs What Is A Sound Insulation Test?
If you're thinking “what is a sound insulation test?" we can help. Also known as acoustic insulation testing, sound insulation tests measure how much noise travels through a property’s walls, floors…
FAQs What Is A Sustainability Statement?
So – what is a Sustainability Statement? How are they different to Energy Statements and SAP Calculations? Essentially, a Sustainability Statement is a comprehensive document that covers all aspects…
FAQs What is a U-value?
A U-value measures the rate of heat transfer through a specific section of construction, (Floors, Walls, Roofs, Doors, Windows, Roof-lights) taking into account all mechanisms under standard…
FAQs What Is A Ventilation Test?
Please read through this page to understand “what is a ventilation test?". In summary, a ventilation test makes sure you correctly configure the ventilation systems in your building and that the air…
FAQs What Is Air Pressure Testing?
So – what is air pressure testing? Air pressure testing calculates the air tightness of a building, known as its ‘air permeability’ or ‘leakage’ rate. Air leakage is air that escapes the building via…
FAQs What Is An Energy Statement?
So – what is an Energy Statement? Essentially it’s a detailed report about how a planned development will meet the energy efficiency standards set by local planning authorities. For instance, if your…
FAQs What Is An EPC?
So – what is an EPC? EPC stands for ‘ Energy Performance Certificate’. It rates the energy efficiency of homes, commercial and industrial properties. An EPC will help a potential buyer or tenant…
FAQs What is PAS 2035?
AN ADEQUATE & COMPLETE VENTILATION SYSTEM
FAQs What Is The Home Quality Mark?
But what is the Home Quality Mark, and how is it different from other sustainability codes? Essentially, the Home Quality Mark is an environmental and occupant well-being assessment method for new…
FAQs What Is The London Plan?
So – what is The London Plan, and is it different from other planning regulations? In summary, the Plan is Greater London’s sustainability strategy. It is a comprehensive document which covers all…
FAQs Who Needs An EPC?
The same EPC requirements govern commercial properties as residential properties. However, there are some exceptions. The following properties do not require an
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