Clipacore Advert 88x130mm.pdf 1 08/09/2025


OVERHEATING CHALLENGE HIGHLIGHTED IN NEW WHITE PAPER


V


ent-Axia has sponsored a new white paper examining the growing challenge of


overheating in UK buildings ‘Solutions for Mitigating Overheating


in Residential and Commercial Buildings’ report explores how architects are responding to the need to mitigate overheating in new-build properties, amid tightening regulations and rising temperatures, including highlighting the increasing role of ventilation as part of the overall mitigation strategy. With more than 2,800 excess deaths estimated during the May and June 2026 heatwaves, and the impact of subsequent heatwaves yet to be assessed, overheating in our homes has become a serious public health issue. Three-quarters of those surveyed in the white paper were actively considering ‘climate-responsive strategies’ that go beyond regulatory minimums when designing buildings. However, there are a range of


challenges in mitigating overheating. As new homes become more thermally effi cient to reduce carbon emissions and help meet the UK’s Net Zero 2050 target, the risk of overheating is increasing. Some 77% of respondents believed that medium or high-rise residential buildings designed to Part L 2021 were at risk of overheating, with volume housebuilding not far behind


at 68%. Education buildings were considered to be the third highest risk, with 66% of those surveyed identifying them as vulnerable to overheating. When removing excess heat,


Approved Document O of the Building Regulations 2021 prioritises passive measures to reduce overheating. However, fi ndings suggest eff ective mechanical ventilation is becoming an increasingly important part of the overall strategy, particularly where passive design alone cannot adequately remove excess heat. Some 69% of respondents cited Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) as the ventilation approach they use most frequently. In addition, almost six in 10 (59%) believe the Future Homes Standard will accelerate demand for intelligent ventilation systems capable of automatically responding to changing indoor and outdoor temperatures. Steve Pearce, product manager


at Vent-Axia said: “In line with Part O, passive design should always be considered fi rst. However, where these measures alone cannot adequately mitigate overheating, eff ective ventilation has an important role to play in helping remove excess heat,


I


BSRIA LAUNCHES ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO BUILDING REGULATIONS


n response to major changes to Building Regulations BSRIA has published BG 92/2026 Building Regulations, a new guide to help building services engineers, designers and contractors navigate complex compliance needs. Building Regulations are legal


requirements supported by guidance in 24 Approved Documents. BG 92/2026 brings these together in an easy-to-follow guide. It covers


Parts A to T and the key legislative diff erences across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. It’s an essential and practical resource throughout design and construction phases.


BG 92/2026 sets out new and


upcoming changes to Building Regulations. Under the new Part L, for example, gas boilers will not be permitted in new homes. Heat pumps and heat networks will become


standard, while PV panels will be required in most new dwellings. BG 92/2026 also explains the Building Safety Act 2022, including the three gateway stages, dutyholder responsibilities and the golden thread of building information. It also covers the revised Approved Document F, which starts to come into eff ect in


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INDUSTRY NEWS 09:50


improve indoor air quality and create healthier, more comfortable buildings. As the research shows, architects are increasingly recognising the importance of eff ective mechanical ventilation, with MVHR frequently the mechanical ventilation of choice in new-builds.” When natural ventilation options are restricted, mechanical ventilation


provides a valuable solution with a number of diff erent types of technology available. To download ‘Solutions for Mitigating Overheating in Residential and Commercial Buildings’ https:// www.vent-axia.com/news/adf- white-paper-mitigating-overheating- residential-commercial-buildings


2027. New airfl ow testing and UKAS calibration rules apply, and for testing and commissioning specialists, this is live compliance territory. BG 92/2026 also covers Part O overheating requirements. David Bleicher, publications manager, BSRIA, said: “Our BG 92/2026 guide provides a clear account of how Building Regulations work, outlines key requirements and guidance, and signposts to government websites and documents with the details. It’s essential for anyone working in the built environment.”


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