RdSAP GO: Did You Know?
Access FREE Trial:
www.elmhurstenergy.co.uk/ rdsap-go-trial/
Elmhurst’s RdSAP Go software enables Domestic Energy Assessors (DEAs) to capture data and produce EPCs and Energy Reports faster than ever before.
The intuitive software eliminates the need for paper forms, manually photographing evidence, and re-keying data back at the office.
To help you get started, here are 3 tips for using the mobile software:
1. You can turn off guidance mode
By turning off guidance mode, you gain the flexibility to complete your assessment in any order you choose, meaning that you aren’t required to take photos throughout and can navigate freely between sections. Guidance mode remains available whenever you need it.
2. You can mark photos as ‘already taken’
By holding down the camera icon and selecting ‘photo already taken’, you can mark a photo as taken. This way, you won’t need to retake or reupload the same photo again.
3. You can upload photos from your device
If you’ve already taken photos, you can easily upload them from your camera roll, eliminating the need to retake them.
More information: https://www.elmhurstenergy.co.uk/rdsap-mobile/
Welcome to the latest edition of Elmhurst’s Energy Matters magazine.
When I wrote the last foreword, we were in the midst of a political waiting game, anticipating the upcoming election. Now, with a new government in place, there is a renewed focus on energy efficiency and the built environment. Although we’re still awaiting details, there is growing optimism as we explore both supply-side and demandside strategies to reduce energy bills, combat climate change, and advance the net zero agenda.
It is surprising that I am still writing about RdSAP 10. The lack of progress is frustrating for all involved. We continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders at the BRE and in government and will communicate updates as soon as we have them.
We are eagerly anticipating our return to Cardiff for our annual Wales Conference on 26th September. The line-up of speakers is even more impressive than last year, which is quite an achievement! We’re expecting attendees from across Wales and the Southwest of England. While the event has a distinctly Welsh flavour, the underlying themes are universal, making it an essential event for everyone. Following Cardiff, our attention will turn to our Northern Ireland Conference on 12th November.
The team and I have been deeply involved in the Future Homes Hub,
particularly with the implementation of the Home Energy Model (HEM) within Building Regulations/ Standards. We continue to advocate for the involvement of competent professionals in energy calculations and the associated tests. The integration of the new Building Safety framework is something our members should pay close attention to. The first application of the HEM will coincide with the introduction of the new Future Homes Standard in 2025. Stay tuned for further developments.
In case you missed it, Which?, the consumer magazine, recently conducted a ‘mystery shopper’ investigation into the quality of energy assessments and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and contacted Elmhurst for comment. Some of the assessors featured were Elmhurst members, and we worked closely with the journalists throughout this highprofile exercise. The outcome is explored in detail in this issue. It’s more important than ever for our members to meticulously document their work (photos, site notes, floor plans) as scrutiny of EPCs and related assessments continues to intensify. While we provide our members with the best guidance to perform their duties competently, the ultimate responsibility lies with the assessor. We’re always here to support members, but it’s crucial to maintain thorough documentation, for protection.
This has led to an increase in the value of our members’ contributions, a welcome development. Whether
it’s EPCs, DECs, ACRs, Air Tightness Tests, Retrofit Assessments/ Coordination, or any other service, the need for skilled professionals has never been greater. This is a message we consistently emphasise to all external stakeholders.
Warm Regards,
Stuart Fairlie, Managing Director Elmhurst Energy
Contact us for the latest news and updates
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01455 883 250
enquiries@elmhurstenergy.co.uk
www.elmhurstenergy.co.uk
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Stuart Fairlie Managing Director, Elmhurst Energy
Elmhurst Releases
New Part O Report in Collaboration with NHBC
Elmhurst has released a new Part O report template in collaboration with the National House Building Council (NHBC), with the aim of refining the approval and sign off process.
The Part O report template has been produced following various delays in the process since Part O came into effect in June 2022, and applies to assessments through the Dynamic Thermal Modelling route.
Feedback has suggested that a number of reports handed to Building Control Bodies lacked the information needed to easily verify on-site overheating mitigation strategies, to ensure the requirements of the Part O assessment had been met. Therefore, with this feedback, and the industry expertise of NHBC and Elmhurst combined, a new overheating report has been created to tackle these issues.
The purpose of the report is to make the design features and overheating mitigation strategy clear to the report recipients, including building control bodies. Using the report correctly offers significant benefits, including a reduction in the number of queries related to modelling and design features, which in turn helps to minimise delays. This report will be available only to members of the Elmhurst Overheating Scheme and we strongly encourage all members to use it.
Members of the Elmhurst Overheating Scheme are deemed competent in dynamic thermal modelling through training and annual competency assessments. This, alongside the report template, should ensure a smooth process.
Richard Smith, Head of Standards, Innovation & Research at NHBC, comments:
‘Using dynamic thermal modelling to assess overheating in new dwellings is undoubtedly a complex process, however TM59 provides clear reporting requirements. This enables stakeholders to understand the outcome, its basis and any design implications, all of which need to be considered in relation to the guidance in Approved Document O. The Elmhurst competency scheme should help avoid delays, as building control professionals will have confidence in the assessments provided. Additionally, when modellers use Elmhurst’s standardised reporting, key information is presented in a clear and consistent format, avoiding confusion and ensuring measures modelled are included in detailed designs. This will provide real value to the overheating assessment process.’
If you receive one of these reports, you should verify that it has been completed by a member of the Elmhurst Overheating Scheme by searching their member ID on our Find-an-Assessor directory.
If you wish to learn more about Overheating Risk Assessments and the Elmhurst Scheme, visit our Overheating Competency Scheme webpage.
Become an Overheating Risk Assessor
Want to learn how to carry out Overheating Risk Assessments for new build properties?
Take a look at our overheating training courses and prerequisite IES and DesignBuilder courses to get started.
View training page: https://elmhurstenergy. co.uk/overheating-riskassessments/
Emma Grantham, New Build Dwellings Team Leader
Evidence Matters: How Energy Assessors Can Stay Out of the Headlines
In June, the consumer advocacy group, Which?, conducted a mystery shopper exercise in collaboration with a dozen homeowners across the country. As part of this investigation, they randomly contacted Domestic Energy Assessors to provide Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments.
The investigation produced mixed results, with the accuracy of the assessments, and the resulting EPCs, called into question.
Elmhurst believes this investigation could be the first of many, as EPCs and energy assessments face intense scrutiny from both property owners and the media. Elmhurst’s own complaints process has already revealed a growing number of grievances from property owners. As consumer interest in energy efficiency continues to rise, this trend is likely to prompt further investigations and mystery shopper exercises, potentially bringing energy assessors into the media spotlight or even into the courtroom.
As a government-approved accreditation scheme, Elmhurst is dedicated to supporting Energy
Assessors. This is why we play a fair and impartial mediation role when handling complaints from stakeholders, such as property owners, tenants and landlords. However, it is vital for Energy Assessors to protect themselves by gathering comprehensive data and evidence to substantiate their assessments.
EPC Criticism Could Ease With Reform
The good news is that reforms to the EPC could soon be here. While the exact timing is still unclear, we are led to believe that it remains on the Government’s agenda, especially given the EPC’s critical role in both current and future energy policy.
The EPC, particularly in the residential sector, remains fairly misunderstood. Originally introduced as a cost-based metric back in 2007, the A to G rating, displayed on the EPC, simply indicates how expensive or affordable a home might be to run. This is based on a standard occupancy model (e.g. a family living in the property and operating the home on set temperatures and running times) and nothing more.
This fact alone has led to intense criticism of the EPC from both homeowners and the media who assume that EPCs are reflective of the actual ‘in use’ energy performance of the property, or the carbon emissions produced by the property.
Elmhurst has long advocated for a reform of the EPC that would give equal prominence to three key metrics - energy cost, energy use, and carbon emissions - rather than focusing on just one. This approach would enhance the EPC’s effectiveness as a policy tool, empowering it to more comprehensively address carbon emissions in housing and contribute to the fight against climate change.
Increased Assessor Vigilance Is Vital
It is important to understand that collecting evidence as part of an assessment is more than just a tick box exercise for potential audits. It is a vital component in maintaining the integrity of the EPC and in helping homeowners and businesses to make smarter energy decisions.
Strong evidence of the assessment
is important to protect assessors from queries and complaints from customers and third parties. When a third party is involved, a simple complaint could lead to an external investigation or, in worst-case scenarios, legal proceedings by the stakeholder.
While mistakes are inevitable, the Which? investigation highlights the critical need for assessors to provide strong evidence as part of their assessments to demonstrate the diligence and quality of their work. To minimise risk, we recommend for all assessors to collect and store the following as part of their assessments:
• detailed site notes,
• clear and accurate floor plans,
• comprehensive photographs,
• all relevant supporting documentation.
These measures are crucial for ensuring the accuracy, credibility, and defensibility of assessments.
A Robust Complaints Procedure Is Crucial
In the previous issue of Energy Matters, Elmhurst’s Audits and Complaints Team Leader, Darren
McHale, covered how complaints can be turned into opportunities and how assessors can learn from errors and maintain high standards of work.
With EPCs receiving increased attention, it’s likely that queries about them will continue to rise, potentially requiring Energy Assessors to rely more frequently on their complaints procedures. In these situations, assessors must respond promptly and professionally, thoroughly reviewing the information and questions received from property owners.
When a complaint cannot be remedied by the energy assessor, they can contact Elmhurst to help resolve the issue. Elmhurst will liaise with both parties and can often resolve misunderstandings by talking to owners. However, for more complex issues, Elmhurst will need to conduct a thorough review of the evidence and information collected by the assessor to independently recreate the assessment and verify whether the same EPC result is achieved.
It is important to note that it is not possible to defend an EPC where there is insufficient evidence, or
if the conclusions drawn by the assessor are inaccurate. While these issues can usually be addressed through remediation, replacing EPCs is sometimes the only course of action.
Summary
The Which? investigation has highlighted that members of the public and the media are scrutinising EPCs more than ever before.
This is a good thing. However, considering this, we recommend for all Energy Assessors to conduct a thorough review of their complaints process, to protect their own reputation and integrity of the wider industry.
Elmhurst continues to reinforce the importance of the energy assessment sector, and that Energy Assessors across the UK maintain a solid reputation for quality.
Stuart Fairlie, Managing Director
EPC Data Sharing Rules
The
Following an update to the Energy Performance of Building Regulations (EPBR), which occurred on 24th June 2024, the sharing of energy assessment data, including Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), Display Energy Certificates (DECs) and Air Conditioning Inspection Reports, in England and Wales is now permitted.
This update marks a groundbreaking moment for the energy assessment industry, having previously experienced a data sharing ‘embargo’, which prevented sharing of data relating to the EPC. While this change has been broadly welcomed by accreditation schemes, assessors, landlords, and the public alike, it is more complex than it may initially seem. As with any law, the devil is in the detail.
Who Can Share EPC Data?
Under regulation 29a, disclosure of assessment data is only possible by three defined parties:
• The Register Keeper
• An Accreditation Scheme (e.g. Elmhurst)
• An Energy Assessor
It is important to note here that a ‘company’ is not listed and can therefore, by law, not share assessment data. It must be shared by the assessor that lodged the energy certificate.
In circumstances where assessors share assessment data, they are required to declare this to their accreditation scheme, who are the ‘data controllers’ in this process. By informing their accreditation scheme, assessors are abiding by the law. To enable this process for Elmhurst members, and to ensure that they comply with the regulations, Elmhurst has created an easy-to-use self-declaration form, which can be completed each and every time an assessor shares assessment data. This is available in Access Elmhurst, via the ‘Data Sharing Consent’ tile.
Under the Scheme Operating Requirements (SORs), accreditation schemes that share data are required to have a Data Sharing Plan in
Devil is in the Detail
place. This plan allows for activity of the scheme and its members to be subject to auditing, therefore ensuring that everyone is sharing data correctly and in accordance with the regulations.
Who Can Assessment Data Be Shared With?
Assessment data can be shared with the following:
• An authorised person - the owner, landlord or occupier of the building.
• A third party with the consent of an authorised person (as defined above).
Where consent of an authorised person is required, evidence of the consent must be securely stored/ saved to ensure an audit trail. This evidence must also include appropriate verification that the authorised person listed is either the owner, occupier or landlord for the property.
Recent discussions with government have confirmed that, while the change in regulations now allows for the sharing of assessment data, it does not mandate it. For this reason, no register keeper, accreditation scheme, or energy assessor is legally required to share any data if they do not wish to. Similarly, if there are other contractual restraints that would legally prevent them from sharing data then these would take precedence.
What Assessment Data Can Or Cannot Be Shared?
When referring to EPC or assessment data, it is helpful to confirm what is meant by the term ‘data’. As stated in the SORs, “assessment data shall be defined as the energy calculation data, floor plans, photographs, and any other documentation to support the data entry and the assumptions made during the assessment process”. However, it is important to note what information cannot be shared. The change in regulations does not, in any way, affect General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). For this reason, any EPC data that is shared, must not include:
• The ‘name of an individual’, i.e. the energy assessor, homeowner, or any other identifying name for an individual.
• ‘Excluded buildings’, i.e. military buildings, or other excluded buildings as defined in regulation 2 of the EPBR.
• Green Deal information.
Some of this information will be shown within the various forms of assessment data, such as photographs. It is important that this information is redacted from all data that is shared. Failure to redact this information would constitute a breach of regulations and could result in prosecution in a court of law.
Final thoughts
This recent change, which Elmhurst has lobbied for over many years, represents a big step forward for all stakeholders in the industry. Making good and informed decisions about improving the energy efficiency of our buildings is largely dependent on what information is available to influence those decisions. The change to the regulations, to allow for easier sharing of energy assessment data, will enable homeowners, landlords and occupiers to better understand their property and make better and more informed decisions.
As an accreditation scheme, operating under license from the Government and in accordance with the SORs, Elmhurst are in the process of developing our Data Sharing Plan. This plan will determine our processes for sharing data and enable all interested parties to gain access to assessment data in a safe, secure and controlled manner.
If you are unsure about the data sharing requirements, or need clarification on what the rules are in place, please do not hesitate to contact Elmhurst. We will be happy to provide further guidance in this area.
Sam Cantle Head of Operations
The Retrofit Assessor Standard:
A Step in the Right Direction, But Does It Go Too Far?
The British Standards Institution (BSI) has released a public consultation on ‘BS 40104 Retrofit assessment for domestic dwellings – Code of practice’, otherwise known as The Retrofit Assessor Standard. The consultation seeks views and feedback on the new Standard, which aims to provide a standardised framework for retrofit assessment.
What Does the Consultation Cover?
The new Retrofit Assessor Standard provides the processes and recommendations for retrofit assessments based on a whole-
dwelling approach, covering the following areas in detail:
• Context assessment (process and output)
• On-Site assessment (condition assessment, ventilation assessment, occupancy assessment, energy performance assessment, site specific context assessment, significance assessment)
• Reporting and lodgement
• Competencies.
The Standard is designed to supersede clauses 7.3 and 7.4 of PAS 2035:2023 and is intended for use by assessors, building surveyors,
designers, coordinators of retrofit programmes and other professionals to assess dwellings prior to retrofit.
Why Is This Consultation Important?
Currently, domestic properties consume around 35% of all the energy generated in the UK and are responsible for 20% of all carbon dioxide emissions. To reach the net zero by 2050 target, it has been estimated that we need to improve approximately 29 million homes. The risks of failing to improve these homes include rising fuel poverty and an increase in deaths related
to cold conditions and poor-quality housing.
Once introduced, BS 40104 will provide a standardised Retrofit Assessment, allowing for all homes to be assessed in the most cost effective and beneficial way for both the occupier and the building.
Key Insights/Changes:
There are a number of key areas within the Retrofit Assessor Standard that Retrofit Assessors will need to be aware of. These include:
4.2: On-site Assessment
The standard kit for assessments has been expanded to include:
• Electronic Moisture Meter.
• Hygrometer (air humidity).
• Vane anemometer with hood.
5.1.1: Overview
Includes two new areas for Retrofit Assessors to take note of:
• C: Identify any relevant health and safety concerns to be aware of during a site visit and potential constraints that might impact retrofit design choices.
• D: Predict, where data is available, future climate change related hazards, for example overheating, flooding, subsidence.
5.1.3: Historical Insight
Includes a review of past historic use of the site/property, for example whether it has always been a domestic property or whether anything in its past use might require decontamination. The assessor should also identify and record whether an existing EPC certificate has been undertaken.
5.1.4: Ground Conditions and Topography
The assessor should identify and record whether access to the site is sufficient for deliveries, equipment and heavy machinery, whether there is adequate space for high-level works and whether ground levels are high or raised.
5.1.5: Local Factors, Exposure and Shelter
Identify the proximity of other
structures and building services and obtain or create a site plan to provide detailed information.
6.2.1: Ventilation Assessment
The assessor should observe, measure and record the airflows through any openings served by mechanical fans.
6.3: Occupancy Assessment
The occupancy assessment is a full assessment, with no basic option. The assessment requires additional checks to be completed by the Retrofit Assessor on the satisfaction and well-being of the homeowner/ tenant.
Annex A (Informative) Condition
Includes an extensive list of condition factors to consider.
Annex B (Informative) Data collection
Contains detailed sample collection sheets.
Annex C (Normative) Competence Framework
Details list of competencies to fulfil defined roles. Retrofit Assessors may need to undergo upskill training in areas such as ventilation testing and ground conditions.
Annex D (Informative) Learning, Skills Development, and Qualifications
Provides guidance on CPD management for the Retrofit Assessor.
Elmhurst Thoughts:
Elmhurst welcomes the consultation on BS 40104 Retrofit assessment for domestic dwellings. Once implemented, the Standard will establish a uniform framework for professionals in the industry to conduct retrofit assessments. This, in turn, will enhance the consistency and quality of assessments across the board, benefitting both the industry and consumer.
The new Standard also directly impacts accreditation schemes and software providers, who must ensure that the relevant software can accommodate the necessary inputs
and produce the corresponding outputs as detailed.
There are some elements of the Standard that appear challenging at this time. Elmhurst expects the Standard to significantly increase the time required to complete an assessment. We will examine these areas in more detail and provide comprehensive feedback where and if needed. One area which we do want to highlight is the Occupancy Assessment. The current version in PAS 2035 is simplistic and does not offer much additional value. It is therefore great to see that the new Retrofit Standard is looking to promote an enhanced Occupancy Assessment. However, we are concerned that the data set is different to Appendix V and may break the link to RdSAP. In this case, we would welcome the ability to utilise either standard.
The consultation provides the opportunity for all interested stakeholders to comment and influence the Retrofit Assessor Standard. We therefore recommend for all Retrofit Assessors to read the Standard and respond to the consultation with their thoughts.
Elmhurst will draft a consultation response in due time and share with Elmhurst members via email and the news area of our website.
How Can You View and Respond to the Consultation?
To view and respond to the consultation, please use the following link:
https://standards development. bsigroup.com/ projects/202200570#/section
Please note that you will need to login or register for free on the BSI website to view and respond to the public consultation.
The consultation closes for public comment on 22nd September 2024.
Scottish Government
Consults on Equivalent Passivhaus Standard
The Scottish Government has launched a consultation on the next revision to the Building Standards, which applies to new buildings. The consultation seeks views on the form and approach that a Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard, implemented through building regulations, should adopt.
What Does The Consultation Cover?
Proposed delivery programme
This consultation forms Stage 1 of the delivery programme. Stage 2 will commence in 2025 and will incorporate further consultations on the detailed proposals for the new standards and compliance processes.
The new standards will be implemented in Stage 3, with two options proposed:
• an implementation of no less than three months after publication of the new standards in early 2026, or
• an introduction as a voluntary standard in early 2026 with a move to mandating the standard in early 2028.
The second option is the approach currently proposed by Scottish Government.
Methodology
The government proposes that the Home Energy Model (HEM) be used with a Scottish wrapper, based on regional climate data, to support the changes proposed in the second consultation. This will be used to compare against Passive House Planning Package (PHPP), to determine whether PHPP can be used as an alternative method for demonstrating compliance to the standards.
For non-domestic buildings, SBEM continues to be used, with further refinements to the methodology expected.
Compliance metrics
At present, Standard 6.1 requires compliance against the Delivered Energy Rate, which is based on regulated energy use of a building.
The Passivhaus Standard uses the Primary Energy Renewable demand,
which includes regulated and unregulated energy use and sets a maximum allowable Space Heat Demand rate.
The consultation proposes to retain the Delivered Energy Rate as the compliance standard. However, there is further consideration of whether a Space Heat Demand limit metric could be used.
Absolute metrics vs Targets
At present, compliance targets differ between Building Standards and Passivhaus standards. In Building Standards, they are set using a notional building which is the same size and form as the actual building, based on a set specification. However, Passivhaus uses an absolute target, regardless of the size or shape of the building, which rewards efficient building forms. The consultation proposes to stay with a target-based approach, using a notional building generated by HEM/ SBEM.
Passivhaus certification as alternative method of compliance to standard 6.1?
Passivhaus certification is an established standard for assessing the performance of low energy buildings using the PHPP calculation procedure. Although Passivhaus uses different performance metrics, it is accepted that a building achieving Passivhaus standards would also achieve compliance with the Building Standards. Therefore, it is proposed that Passivhaus certification could be used as a means of demonstrating compliance
with standards.
Call for information on current standards
There are further sections of the consultation that look for evidence on how the current standards are being met. For example, the Government are looking for confirmed specifications for the February 2023 standards to be shared, to support the development of the energy baseline for new buildings in future standards.
Elmhurst Thoughts
Elmhurst is pleased to see the Scottish Government continuing to review their Building Standards to improve energy efficiency of new buildings.
The creation of a Passivhaus equivalent is complex and needs detailed analysis, so to avoid any unintended consequences. This is particularly necessary regarding the proposal to use either the National Calculation Methodology (NCM) or PHPP as a way of demonstrating compliance with Standard 6.1.
Elmhurst are in the process of creating a consultation response and will share this with members in due course.
Further Information
The consultation closes on Wednesday 23rd October 2024. To view the consultation, please use the following link:
https://consult.gov.scot/localgovernment-and-communities/ building-regulations-passivhausequivalent/
Jason Hewins, New Build Dwellings Manager
What can we expect from a new Government on energy, net zero, and building policies?
On 4th July 2024, the Labour Party secured victory in the UK General Election, concluding 14 years of Conservative government. Within the Labour Party’s election Manifesto, the Party presented various plans on a number of highprofile topics, including proposals on energy efficiency, achieving net zero, and house building targets.
With Parliament now back in session following the summer recess. The government is now positioned to act on its initiatives. So, what can we expect from the Labour Government regarding energy efficiency, net zero, and building policies?
Energy Efficiency and Net Zero
The Labour Manifesto outlined the Party’s commitment to achieve net zero by 2050, as well as introducing a new mission to “Make Britain a Clean Energy Superpower by 2030”. As the Manifesto states: “the clean energy transition represents a huge opportunity to generate growth, tackle the cost-of-living crisis and make Britain energy independent once again.”
The Manifesto also included a section titled ‘Warm Homes Plan”. Within this, the Labour Party promises to invest an extra £6.6 billion to upgrade an estimated 5 million homes. The Warm Homes Plan will also offer grants and low interest loans to support investment in home improvements, such as insulation, solar panels and low carbon heating. In addition to this, the Party will work with the private sector, including banks and building societies, to provide further private finance to accelerate home upgrades and low carbon heating.
Ed Miliband announces renewed interest in EPC targets for Private Rented Sector
The Labour Manifesto outlined the Labour Party’s promise to reintroduce Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) by 2030. This marks a significant reversal following the Conservative Government’s decision to scrap the MEES regulations in September 2023.
Following the election, Prime Minister Keir Starmer appointed Ed Miliband as Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. This position includes the responsibility for delivering the Warm Homes Plan.
In July, Ed Miliband told the House of Commons that: “One thing that this Government will do that the last Government did not, is demand that landlords raise the standard of their accommodation to a proper energy performance certificate standard C by 2030.” The Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary stated that this move would help tackle fuel poverty, which currently affects more than three million people in the country.
Further details were not provided on how the minimum standards are to be achieved. The government is expected to provide further information in due course.
Housing and Buildings
Housebuilding targets, and the ability of the government to meet them, is an increasingly important topic.
Within the Labour Party’s ‘Five point plan for growth’, the Party includes a ‘Getting Britain Building Again’ action point. In this, the Labour Party promises to build 1.5 million new homes during their current Parliament. This is to be achieved by:
• Updating Planning Frameworks
• Taking a Brownfield First Approach
• Taking a strategic approach to the Greenbelt
• Building more New Towns
• Reforming Purchase Rules
• Unlocking ‘nutrient neutrality’ homes
In addition to this, the Labour Manifesto also places a focus on the quality of new homes. The document states, “we will take steps to ensure that we are building more high-quality homes and creating places that increase climate resilience”.
Housing targets increased to get Britain building again
In August, the Government announced an overhaul of the planning system to “fix the foundations and grow the economy”. In this, the Government plans to provide all councils in England with new, mandatory housing targets for their area. This announcement reverses the decision of the former government to make housing targets advisory for all councils.
In the relevant press release, the Government state that this overhaul will result in councils boosting housebuilding in the areas that are most in need, thereby helping more people to buy homes and removing barriers to economic growth.
Elmhurst Response
The UK has some of the worstperforming buildings in Europe. To achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, it is estimated that approximately 29 million homes need significant energy efficiency improvements. Elmhurst therefore supports the Labour Governments commitment to increasing housebuilding targets and invest in home improvement efforts.
Elmhurst is also glad to see proposals to reintroduce the MEES regulations for domestic rented homes. However, it is important that further information on this is provided promptly, to allow landlords adequate time to meet the relevant minimum standards. To facilitate the reintroduction of MEES, it is also crucial for the EPC Action Plan and Reform Consultation to gain substantial traction. EPC reform will not only support the implementation of MEES, but also help deliver changes to minimise concerns surrounding the suitability of EPCs.
It now remains open to the Government to turn its plans into action and follow through on its various commitments.
The Importance of Ventilation in Homes
As homes become more energy efficient across the UK, as a result of revisions to Building Regulations and the increase in retrofit measures, the role of ventilation is gaining greater focus. But why is ventilation important in homes and what future changes are expected in this area?
Why Is Ventilation Important?
Correctly installed ventilation systems are crucial in preventing issues arising from poor indoor air quality. Ventilation not only ensures that adequate fresh air is supplied, but also that stale air is removed from the property.
Poorly operating ventilation systems can result in high levels of pollutants and damp and condensation issues that all have a direct impact on the occupant’s health. They can also result in systems running inefficiently, leading to an increased level of carbon emissions produced and, therefore, higher fuel bills.
What Standards Currently Apply To The Provision Of Ventilation?
In England and Wales, ventilation systems are covered in Part F of the Building Regulations. In Scotland, this is covered in Section 3 of the Building Standards Technical Handbook. In Northern Ireland, this is covered in Technical Booklet K.
Each of the above provides a set of minimum standards for new ventilation systems, covering areas such as determining appropriate types of controlled ventilation, minimum performance standards and commissioning procedures to ensure ventilation systems operate correctly.
Future Changes to Building Regulations
In England, the recent Future Homes Standard consultation proposed a number of key changes to Part F of the Building Regulations. These changes are aimed at improving
testing procedures and compliance with the requirements.
The equipment used for completing testing has been reviewed. It has been proposed that rotating vane anemometers will not be permitted for testing continuous mechanical ventilation systems. For these types of ventilation, only powered flow hoods will be allowed and must be calibrated annually. This will improve the accuracy of measurements; however, it comes at an additional cost to the person performing the commissioning.
In addition, there is also a proposal to extend Building Regulation 42 (air flow testing) to cover the installation of mechanical ventilation in existing homes. At present,, this only refers to installations in new homes. However, with the increase in energy efficiency measures in existing homes requiring additional ventilation to be installed, it’s crucial that these systems perform correctly. The procedures for commissioning mechanical ventilation will be
extended to cover new systems installed in existing homes.
There is also revised guidance on who should complete commissioning of mechanical ventilation. It is proposed that commissioning should only be completed by members of a Competent Persons Scheme or the Building Control Body. The move to specifically identify competent people to complete this work is set against the backdrop of Approved Inspectors becoming Registered Building Inspectors (RBIs) and Registered Building Control Approvers (RBCAs). The Building Safety Regulator is now responsible for Competent Person Schemes and it is expected that these will play a greater role in demonstrating compliance to Building Regulations in the future.
The other devolved administrations are expected to make proposals for installation of ventilation systems in consultations to their Building Regulations/Standards later this year.
Elmhurst Thoughts
It is crucial that any ventilation system installed in a new or existing home performs correctly to ensure suitable energy efficiency and to minimise any air quality issues that can occur with incorrectly installed systems. As homes become more energy efficient, it is crucial that Building Regulations ensure correct installation of all ventilation systems.
Elmhurst is aware that compliance with this area of the Building Regulations is poor. We therefore support the move to use competent people to complete this crucial service. Elmhurst currently operates a Ventilation Competency Scheme for individuals who commission Ventilation systems, suitably recognising competent people in this field.
Further Resources:
The Future Homes and Buildings Standards: 2023 consultation:
https://www.gov.uk/government/ consultations/the-futurehomes-and-buildingsstandards-2023-consultation/ the-future-homes-and-buildingsstandards-2023-consultation
Elmhurst Ventilation Competency Scheme:
https://www.elmhurstenergy. co.uk/ventilation-competencyscheme/
Jason Hewins, New Build Dwellings Manager
Improving the Quality of Home Improvement with TrustMark
TrustMark is the UK’s only Government Endorsed Quality scheme for work carried out in or around the home, whether that’s installing energy efficiency measures or landscaping a garden. We are passionate about quality, raising standards and ensuring consumers have appropriate protection in place when having work done.
In this article Nicola Waller, Membership Director at TrustMark, explains the benefits of joining Elmhurst’s TrustMark Approved Retrofit Assessor accreditation scheme to create new work opportunities and demonstrate your competence to deliver PAS 2035 retrofit work across the UK.
Since we started in 2005, we have been working to help drive-up standards across the industry and improve the protection offered to homeowners when having work done. As a Scheme Provider of TrustMark, Elmhurst continues to be a great supporter and has a growing membership of Retrofit Assessors, Retrofit Coordinators and Domestic Energy Assessors, who are TrustMark registered. We are collaborating closely together to expand our coverage and scope across the UK.
Who is TrustMark?
TrustMark is a not-for-profit business which means we can focus on our customers –tradespeople and homeowners - and not on shareholders. We continually reinvest into the scheme to enhance the support we provide to our Registered Businesses and Scheme Providers.
We can help homeowners find a tradesperson, including Retrofit Assessors, Retrofit Coordinators and Domestic Energy Assessors, who are skilled, trained and competent to carry out the work they need through our online search facility, ‘Find a Trader’.
If you’re a Retrofit Assessor, Retrofit Coordinator or Domestic Energy Assessor delivering high quality retrofit assessments and looking to demonstrate your commitment to doing a great job with high levels of customer service, you can apply to join our other 17,000+ Registered Businesses who are all working to the highest professional standard in their local areas.
Licence to Operate
TrustMark is a not-for-profit organisation, operating under a Master Licence Agreement, issued by the Government’s Department for Business & Trade. This Agreement sets out what we do and how we do it.
We licence and work with a network of 38 Scheme Providers – of which Elmhurst is one – and they are all committed to meeting the requirements of our Quality Scheme. In turn, our Scheme Providers licence and work with their TrustMark Registered Businesses to ensure they commit to and maintain the required standards of technical competence, trading practices and customer service.
Why join TrustMark?
By adding TrustMark to your Elmhurst membership, you will have access to the following benefits:
Access to new work
We are working with third parties to identify and create new avenues for work opportunities across all our trades.
We provide access to exclusive finance and cashback options for your customers from leading financial institutions.
We are recommended by lenders, local authorities and well-known brands and services.
Build your Business Customers can easily find you using TrustMark’s ‘Find a Trader’ online directory.
Your unique TrustMark profile, which you can link to your website, will let you manage customer enquiries, track progress, manage your business presence and build positive feedback.
Visible Campaigns and Marketing Support. Displaying the TrustMark logo on your letterheads, marketing material, website and vehicles will provide additional assurance to potential customers that you are a quality business.
Benefit from our marketing initiatives aimed at driving customers to the TrustMark website and gain more exposure for your business.
Making your life easier
24/7 Access to the Business Portal. Promote your business with a personalised profile page to showcase your work, collect reviews and build your reputation.
Quality Management and Continual Improvement. Access to advice, guidance and template contracts all based around the TrustMark Code of Conduct, providing clear legislative support in partnership with Trading Standards.
Protecting you and your customers
We provide guidance on managing and resolving customer complaints, including access to the independent Dispute Resolution Ombudsman (DRO) service, giving businesses and customers the tools to handle complaints in a smooth and professional manner.
Working with key partners
At TrustMark, we work closely with a number of different partner organisations, who share our mission to raise trading standards and improve consumer protection. By working together, we can enhance the work our Registered Businesses carry out at their customer’s home and offer advice and support, ranging from safety online to energy advice.
Our partners span many sectors and range from finance, government, accommodation and charities to consumer protection professionals and energy efficiency, such as Age UK, Airbnb, Citizens Advice Bureau, Energy Saving Trust and Grand Designs.
We have also teamed up with industry-leading organisations to offer Registered Businesses (Accredited Retrofit Assessors and Retrofit Coordinators) exclusive offers and discounts that can benefit them both in their working and personal lives. These include: AA, ARMD, easyToolhire, Europcar, Fergus, Fuel Card Services, Mellor Financial Training, My Staff Shop, Octopus Electric Vehicles and Wickes TradePro.
Further Information
For further information about TrustMark and what the quality mark can provide for you as a TrustMark Approved retrofit professionals, please visit the Retrofit Accreditation pages on Elmhurst’s website.
Nicola Waller, Membership Director at TrustMark
Market Data
At Elmhurst, we collect and analyse data from sources to help us make better business decisions.
Turning this data into a digestible form takes time and requires a detailed understanding of context. In each edition of Energy Matters, we provide you with a snapshot of this data, with a brief commentary, which we hope you find of interest and can help you prepare for the future.
Covid-19 had a major impact on the construction, housing, and energy assessment markets, which is reflected in each of the charts. Some of the data related to new build homes within the devolved authorities has not been updated since December 2020 and estimates have been used.
Amo Sihra, Commercial Director
Existing Dwellings
Existing Dwellings Volume of EPC lodgements and residential house sales on a rolling 12-month basis (by quarter).
Commentary
Over the past five years, annual house sales have remained steady at approximately 1.19 million.
The market experienced a significant downturn in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but rebounded by July and has seen dramatic growth since. Sales peaked in the 12 months up to September 2021, reaching 1.55 million—a 17% increase compared to the previous high in March 2016 and 30% above the average. However, in the last 12 months, up to September, sales volumes have started to decline, now standing at 1 million.
The volume of EPCs peaked in the 12 months leading up to May 2014, largely driven by the ECO scheme. This sharply declined to a low of 1.2 million by March 2018. Following two years of recovery, this peaked again in February 2020 with year-on-year growth of 11%, largely due to Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in the private rental sector. Since March 2020 (1.63 million), the volumes dropped significantly but have now recovered to slightly above pre-Covid levels, standing at 1.65 million. There are many other reasons for an EPC to be completed, such as those for social housing as well as ECO4. The Local Authority Delivery Scheme and work funded by the decarbonisation fund are likely to boost demand. Government initiatives, such as MEES, should also continue to drive up the demand for EPCs. Typically, an increase in EPCs (as shown by the blue line) suggests a corresponding rise in house sales. owever, the graph indicates this is not currently the case, implying that factors other than house sales are influencing the demand for EPCs.
New Build / On Construction
New Build / On Construction Volume of residential house starts and completions on a rolling 12-month basis (by quarter).
Data for Scotland and Wales is estimated since December 2020. Volume of On Construction (new build residential) EPCs in the UK issued on a rolling 12-month basis.
Commentary
Following the pandemic, housing starts initially recovered rapidly, peaking at 217,000 in June 2021. However, they then declined by 6% to 203,000 by March 2021. Since June 2023, housing starts have consistently declined, now standing at 175,000. At the same time, the volume of EPCs over the past 12 months has reached 267,000, a 9% increase from a low of 246,000. Despite peaking at 302,000 in February 2020, current volumes are 11.5% below this peak.
Non-Domestic
Non-Domestic/Commercial buildings property sales and commercial property EPCs in the UK on a rolling 12-month basis.
Commentary
Commercial sales haverecovered strongly, now standing 20% above the January 2021 lows and only 8% below the peak of October 2017. Although EPCs are issued for reasons beyond property sales, their issuance has surged and is now 65% higher than the March 2021 low. The market has rebounded impressively, as indicated by the blue line’s robust upward trend in non-domestic EPCs, despite a recent decline since October 2023. More recently, sales of non-domestic properties, depicted by the red line, have remained stable at approximately 1.17 million.
Training Update
Elmhurst offers a range of training options to provide you with an engaging and impactful learning experience, tailored to meet your needs. Here is a breakdown of what’s on offer:
Classroom Training
Regular sessions held in the East Midlands, with nationwide availability.
Interact with expert tutors in person.
Personalised guidance and networking opportunities.
Remote Training
Flexible online learning from anywhere with an internet connection.
Live sessions with interactive features.
Engage directly with instructors and peers.
On Demand Training
Access full qualification and CPD webinars anytime, anywhere.
Study at your own pace, to fit your schedule.
Enjoy the convenience of learning on the go.
Share Your Thoughts
Elmhurstis committed to providing training courses that meet your needs. Share your suggestions for CPD training courses or subjects you would like to learn more about via the QR code.
Josh Wakeling, Head of Training
Why Use Elmhurst?
At Elmhurst, we are more than just a training provider. We ensure that you receive expert support and guidance throughout your entire journey, from the moment you enrol to well beyond the completion of your course.
But don’t just take our word for itlisten to what some of our recent course attendees had to say:
“Having worked in this industry for many years, I think the “on demand” niche that this course offers is what sets it apart from the crowd.”
Christopher Newman, Older and Traditional Buildings (On Demand)
“I really enjoyed the course and the knowledge I have gained after completing the course.”
Sabina Adamska, Older and Traditional Buildings (On Demand)
“I very much enjoyed this course. I was able to learn at my own pace and I found that the course covered everything in extremely good detail.”
Jessica Whitehall, Retrofit Assessor (On Demand)
What’s Trending?
In the ever-changing word of energy efficiency, retrofitting, and sustainability, it is important to stay up to date with all the latest news and trends. Take a look at our current trending courses.
1. Overheating Risk Assessment Training (Remote and On Demand)
The introduction of Part O within the Building Regulations has made it mandatory for all new dwellings in England to undergo overheating risk assessments. This is a gamechanger, as developers are now required to provide evidence that their buildings mitigate the risk of overheating, an issue which is only expected to intensify with climate change.
In collaboration with the National House Building Council (NHBC), Elmhurst has recently released a new Part O report template, designed to streamline the approval process for overheating assessments. This template, crafted with feedback from industry professionals, ensures that all necessary information is clearly presented, reducing delays and confusion during the verification
2.
Non-Domestic Conventions Update (On Demand)
Get ahead of the curve with our Non-Domestic Conventions Update course. Issue 9 of the Non-Domestic Conventions came into play in July 2024, and it is vital for all non-domestic assessors to make themselves fluent with them as soon as possible. Our training course gives you a direct insight into the recent changes to the conventions
3. Understanding Room in the Roof (On Demand)
We have officially launched a firstof-its-kind virtual environment and Virtual Reality (VR) compatible training program. The training is aimed at helping Domestic Energy Assessors and Retrofit Assessors understand “Room in the Roof” for RdSAP 9.94 assessments, which is a common audit challenge. This exciting new training has been developed in collaboration with Virtual Environment and
process. By using this standardised report, assessors can provide building control bodies with a clear and consistent format, making it easier to approve mitigation strategies and ensure a smooth sign off process.
By enrolling on our Overheating Risk Assessment courses, you can learn to provide detailed assessments using Dynamic Thermal Modelling (DTM) through IES or DesignBuilder software. These courses are essential for those looking to enhance their service offerings, especially for architects, developers, and energy assessors who want to ensure compliance with Part O while offering clients flexibility in design.
The training, which can be completed online, includes a comprehensive overview of how to model buildings to assess overheating risks accurately. Whether you’re new to DTM or
and allows you to understand what you need to do in order to stay audit compliant. This course is fully on demand, meaning you can learn on the go. This is a must-have for any busy non-domestic energy assessor.
VR specialists to create an interactive and immersive learning experience. Learners can freely explore a 360-degree, Room in the Roof virtual environment, learning through a combination of interactive information points, instructional videos and guidance from our expert technical support team. For more information, view our recent news article:
https://www.elmhurstenergy. co.uk/blog/2024/09/03/elmhurstlaunch-virtual-environmenttraining-for-room-in-the-roof/
seeking to upgrade your skills, our training course will cater to your level of experience.
Don’t miss out on this chance to stay ahead of industry changes and offer a service that is becoming increasingly critical in the UK’s building sector. Following the training, you can also join Elmhurst’s Overheating Competency Scheme to showcase your expertise and
Improvement Evaluator for DEAs
The ultimate energy consultancy tool for any Elmhurst Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) who wants to enhance their assessment service.
Model a range of recommendations across multiple scenarios
See the real-time impact on important metrics, such as energy rating
Generate an Elmhurst quality assured report
Provide tailored advice on how to achieve specific energy ratings
What do Elmhurst members think?
“The software eradicates all guess work and gives you the ability to be able to accurately and factually advise your customers about their recommendation options”
Ivan Glasford, Elmhurst Accredited Domestic Energy Assessor
“I really like the layout of the report… it very clearly explains it is not an EPC and that results are cumulative and will change with different combinations.”
Nicole Solomons, Elmhurst Accredited Domestic Energy Assessor
For more information, visit: www.elmhurstenergy.co.uk/improvement-evaluatorsoftware-for-deas/
