In May 2013, the UK Government was expected to provide a “detailed response” to its 2012 consultation on changes to Part L, which would set out standards for energy efficiency in building work. After this date was missed, there is yet to be any sign of the response despite fears that the delays are adding further uncertainty to the construction industry, particularly for house builders and product manufacturers.
BWF Policy Executive Matt Mahony commented,
“Despite the fact that we have reached the beginning of June, there is yet to be any indication of the timing and nature of the response on Part L. The lack of activity has come amid speculation that the delays owe much to disagreements within the Coalition over how strong the new efficiency rules should be.
“The government is caught in a balancing act and will have been trying to ensure that the new rules, which are meant to fit in with plans to ensure all new homes are zero carbon from 2016, are also compatible with the coalition’s stated aim to reduce excessive and costly regulation on businesses.
“For joinery businesses wanting to know how these changes will affect the energy performance of the products that they manufacture, the advice, as before, is to ‘watch this space’”
Earlier this year a spokesman for the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) said that the plan had always been to publish the regulations in spring and introduce them in the autumn, but industry experts had since noted noted that the original timetable had been for an April introduction. An expected publication date of the end of May was then stated in the 2013 Budget but since then there been no further information as to the timing of the government’s response.
For BWF members wishing for further information, we can signpost you to the relevant building regulations for the UK, including all the Devolved Nations, and there is a range of other areas of information that has an industry-wise relevance. You can find further information at www.bwf.org.uk/toolkit/technical-woodworking-support
Our technical publications library also contains a wealth of information, including more detailed guidance on building regulations, and care of timber windows and doors on site
https://www.bwf.org.uk/publications/technical
Our member-only technical helpline is also available should you not find the answer. Call the helpline on 0844 209 2610.
