New Security Regulations for accessible windows and doors in new homes from October 1st

From 1st October the building regulations for England introduce the requirement for security rated doors and windows to be provided for new build homes.  Note this does not apply to replacement windows and doorsets.

These amendments pave the way for the new requirements implemented following the Housing Standards Review. The document can be found using the link below.

Building Regulations and (Amendment) Regulations 2015: circular 01/2015

Government published a number of draft documents last year revising guidance given for compliance with the building regulations. Manufacturers of doors, windows and stairs would be affected by the proposed changes to Approved document M, Access to buildings and a new Approved document Q, security.

How will these changes affect the products I manufacture?

The approved document Q proposals included a recommendation for an enhanced level of security to be achieved by doors (including vehicular garage doors) and windows fitted into new dwellings. One of the crucial elements proposed was that doors and windows should, as a minimum, be of a design successfully tested to PAS 24. It was recognised that products meeting the requirements of the Secured by Design Scheme would meet the recommendations.

When will the changes take effect?

The new Approved Document Q: Security – Dwellings will take effect on 1 October 2015 for use in England. It does not apply to work started before 1 October 2015, or work subject to a building notice, full plans application or initial notice submitted before that date provided the work is started on site before 1 October 2016.

How can I find out more?

BWF members have been briefed on these changes since the consultation opened in 2014, with extensive coverage in the newsletter, technical updates, meetings, a webinar and also a workshop run by representatives of the Department of Communities and Local Government at Members Day 2015 in April.  The very informative slides of Fit for purpose: – Impact of Part Q: Security' Day can be downloaded from the list via the link.

Further guidance is available through the BWF Technical Helpline and members of our technical committee will have seen a bespoke window annex that BWF is currently working on.