The latest updates to Approved Documents F and L will come into effect on 24 March 2027 for work not connected with higher-risk buildings, and on 24 September 2027 for work involving higher-risk buildings. These changes introduce several important updates for those involved in the design, construction, and commissioning of new buildings. Here are some of the key changes:
Approved Document L – Volume 1
🔹 Introduction of Requirement L3, placing a stronger focus on on-site renewable energy generation. New dwellings will be expected to incorporate renewable energy unless there is clear justification or evidence that energy is being sourced from an alternative renewable supply.
🔹 Enhanced commissioning requirements, including more comprehensive Operation & Maintenance (O&M) documentation.
🔹 Additional guidance on using the Home Energy Model (HEM) alongside SAP 10.3 for energy calculations.
🔹 New requirements for district heating networks to include sleeving capacity calculations, with provisions varying depending on network conditions.
🔹 Minor improvements to Specific Fan Power (SFP) requirements.
🔹 Gas-fired boilers will no longer be permitted in new dwellings.
Approved Document L – Volume 2
🔹 The same district heating sleeving capacity requirements now apply to non-domestic buildings.
🔹 Minor revisions to minimum insulation thicknesses, while allowing greater flexibility where designs comply with the relevant British Standards.
🔹 Gas-fired boilers will no longer be permitted in new non-domestic buildings.
🔹 The increased emphasis on commissioning and supporting documentation mirrors the requirements introduced in Volume 1.
Approved Document F – Volume 1
🔹Greater emphasis on commissioning, with clearer requirements for commissioning documentation and when it must be submitted to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) or Building Control.
🔹Minor amendments that further encourage the use of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems over extract-only ventilation.