Plan for them while the layout and service routes can still be changed. [1] [2] [3] [4]
Overheating: control unwanted heat and remove it
Part O applies to new residential buildings within its scope. Its guidance offers a simplified method and a dynamic thermal-modelling route. Both address limiting unwanted solar gains and providing an effective means of removing excess heat. A winter energy assessment does not answer the summer-overheating question. [1]
The strategy must be usable. Noise, pollution, security and protection from falling can affect whether windows can reasonably be opened as assumed. A calculation that relies on openings residents cannot safely or practically use needs revisiting. Mechanical cooling is not the first substitute for examining the passive options required by the guidance. [1]
Discuss glazing, shading and the opening strategy together before specifying windows. Record the assumptions in the design information so later changes can be checked against the overheating assessment.
EV charging: check associated parking and the scope
Part S addresses charging infrastructure for new residential buildings with associated parking, among other types of work. The requirement depends on the arrangement and includes provisions for connection costs and cable routes. It does not create a requirement to provide a car-parking space where the planning scheme has none. [3]
Coordinate the parking layout with the electrical design. Establish where the equipment, cables and supply connection will go, and obtain the necessary cost information before relying on an exception. Do not treat a stated cost cap as a general allowance to omit all infrastructure without applying the detailed provisions. [3]
Water efficiency: a calculated design standard
The current Approved Document G guidance uses 125 litres per person per day as the standard maximum calculated consumption for a new dwelling. The optional 110-litre requirement applies where it is imposed through the relevant planning condition. These are design calculations, not a daily household ration measured against residents' bills. [2]
Select fittings with the necessary performance information and keep the final calculation consistent with what is installed. A late change to showers, taps or sanitary fittings should be checked rather than assumed to leave the result unchanged. [2]
A 2025 consultation proposed reducing the standard figure to 105 litres and the optional figure to 100 litres. Keep these proposed figures separate from the published Approved Document limits above, and confirm the applicable regulations and any planning condition before completing the water-efficiency calculation. [5] [2]
Broadband: infrastructure and connection are different
Part R distinguishes gigabit-ready physical infrastructure from the connection to a gigabit-capable network. The connection requirement has a developer cost cap of £2,000 per dwelling, including VAT and after the operator's contribution. Where a gigabit connection is not available within the cap, the guidance addresses the next-fastest connection and further exceptions. [4]
The cap should not be read as a blanket exemption from the separate physical-infrastructure requirement. Nor does a network connection include purchasing an ongoing internet subscription for the occupier. Discuss the route and termination point with network providers early. [4]
Keep the package coordinated
Set out who is responsible for each calculation, drawing, installation and completion record. Check them together when the design changes.
The relevant Future Homes and Buildings Standards energy and ventilation provisions commence on 24 March 2027 for non-higher-risk work. The separate higher-risk building provisions commence on 24 September 2027, subject to the applicable transitional arrangements. These dates concern the energy and ventilation package; separate overheating, charging, water and broadband assessments still apply. [6]