In a recent conversation with Andy Mitchell of 21°, I had the privilege of exploring the deficiencies in current Building Regulations and their effects on energy efficiency in newly constructed homes. Andy’s insights are both illuminating and critical, urging a reassessment of our approach to building standards.
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As I entered the welcoming, sunlit office of 21°, Andy Mitchell greeted me with a friendly smile and a firm handshake, immediately setting the tone for an engaging discussion. His fervour for sustainable construction was evident, underpinned by his extensive experience in the industry.
“Current Building Regulations fall significantly short in ensuring energy efficiency in new homes,” Andy began. “We are working within a framework that is in dire need of a comprehensive overhaul.”
The regulations Andy referred to encompass three crucial components related to energy efficiency: Part L (energy and carbon emissions), Part O (overheating), and Part F (ventilation). While these regulations are well-intentioned, they often fail in practical application. A primary tool used to predict a building’s energy efficiency is the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP), which produces a home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). However, Andy was quick to highlight the limitations inherent in this system.
“The SAP tool is fundamentally flawed,” he asserted. “It lacks the requisite detail to provide accurate energy efficiency predictions. Research indicates that newly built homes often require 60% more heating than their certificates suggest—a glaring discrepancy.”
Andy elaborated that the SAP tool does not account for the real-world performance of buildings. There is frequently a significant gap between design and actual construction. Builders may not adhere to specifications precisely, and design details can be challenging to implement practically. Consequently, the energy performance of the finished buildings often falls short of expectations.
“Inconsistent quality checks within the construction industry exacerbate the issue,” Andy added. “Without rigorous, ongoing oversight and post-construction assessments, buildings simply do not perform as designed.”
To address these deficiencies, Andy advocates transforming SAP from a mere compliance tool into a comprehensive design instrument, akin to the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP). “The PHPP allows for more accurate predictions by requiring a greater level of detail. It enables us to adjust different elements to determine the optimal way to create a high-performance home,” he explained.
Another critical area needing improvement is the specification process for the energy performance of homes. For example, current standards for heat pumps, such as the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), do not consider mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR). This omission leads to the over-specification of heat pumps, making them more expensive to run and less efficient.
“Enhanced training for architects, contractors, and building control operatives is essential,” Andy emphasised. “We need higher benchmarking standards to ensure components like ventilation and energy use are seamlessly integrated.”
Andy’s passion for the subject was palpable as he spoke about the broader implications of energy-efficient homes. “Homes should be recognised as living spaces rather than financial assets. Properly designed homes significantly contribute to both physical and mental health. A high-performing home maintains a radiant heat of 21°C +/- 4°C for optimal human comfort. Improved air quality and humidity levels directly impact the recovery rate from respiratory illnesses.”
He continued, “Investing in better homes is not just about immediate financial return but about enhancing quality of life. While improving one element, such as insulation, might have a long period before any financial gains are realised, the immediate benefits in terms of comfort and health are substantial.”
Andy’s vision extends beyond individual homes to broader societal implications. “Poor-quality housing is linked to health issues, which burden the NHS and reduce national productivity. The upcoming Future Homes Standard 2025 proposes that a Home Energy Model (HEM) will replace SAP, potentially offering greater granularity, though this is not yet confirmed.”
He also sees a significant role for the government. “The new Labour government’s commitment to updating planning laws and building higher-quality infrastructure presents a massive opportunity. By setting high standards for decarbonisation and energy efficiency, the government can ensure new housing is both fit for purpose and conducive to better living standards.”
As our conversation drew to a close, Andy reiterated the importance of a holistic approach to building assessments. “Building better homes involves considering the entire system rather than individual elements. This means ensuring that core components—windows, doors, heating, ventilation, airtightness, and insulation—are correctly integrated.”
“Moving beyond compliance in Building Regulations is vital for creating homes that prioritise the well-being of their occupants,” he concluded. “By addressing the gaps in current standards, advocating for better tools and training, and adopting a holistic approach, we can ensure new homes are not only energy efficient but also conducive to health and wellbeing.”
Our discussion left me with a renewed understanding of the importance of transcending mere compliance. Andy Mitchell’s insights highlighted the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we approach building regulations. His call to action is clear: to create a built environment that meets the needs of its occupants and endures over time, we must strive for more comprehensive and integrated solutions.
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