Scottish Building Regulations

Changes to Scottish Building Regulations

Following a consultation on amendments to Section 6 (Energy) and minor changes to Section 3 (Environment), the Scottish Government has published the 2010 edition of the Technical Handbooks, which provide guidance on achieving the standards set out in the Building (Scotland) Regulations. The amendments to the Building Regulations come into force on 1 October 2010 and include a 30% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from new buildings beyond current standards, and a mechanism for improving energy performance when extending existing buildings. It is expected that further requirements will be introduced in 2013 and 2016.

It is therefore a good idea for your organisation to prepare for these changes now by designing new dwellings and refurbishing existing properties that go beyond the minimum criteria outlined in building standards

It is a particularly good idea to ensure that high levels of insulation and air-tightness are achieved. This will, in the future, make it easier and cheaper to further reduce emissions by replacing heating systems and other services than by trying to improve insulation levels.

Local authorities have the opportunity through their building control and planning departments to ensure that current building regulations are enforced, and to encourage developers to build energy efficiency into their planning phase and reduce the total carbon dioxide emissions from dwellings.

Guidance from the Energy Saving Trust

A brief overview of current Scottish Building Standards is available in our briefing note on Housing standards in Scotland.

A wide range of guidance and other publications is available from the Energy Saving Trust to help local authorities and housing associations to go further than minimum regulatory level and to achieve compliance. Some of these are detailed on our page of useful publications for building professionals.

Building control officers can also encourage householders to find out more about energy efficiency and renewable energy options for their home by phoning 0800 512 012. We are very happy to provide leaflets for you to distribute to applicants.

Further help and information

If you have a query relating to sustainable energy in housing contact the Practical Help team on 0844 84 888 30.

Alternatively, email practicalhelp@est.org.uk