Published: 19th March 2025
In the UK, the government has recently made changes to the building regulations in place, specifically, improving energy efficiency and lowering carbon emissions. So, what does that mean for the building regulations regarding heating systems? Keep reading to find out what the changes are and how they might affect you as a developer.
We understand that regulations are evolving and changing often, and for developers, it can sometimes be challenging to keep up with. There have been substantial changes to heating systems within the UK recently for both new and existing buildings, including:
Part L is in written with the goal of making buildings more energy efficient and aims to conserve fuel and power. Since June 2022, the regulation stipulates that newly built homes must emit 31% less CO2 emissions, and non-domestic buildings must produce 27% less.
In order to meet the UK’s net-zero targets by 2050, it is now mandatory for buildings to have high-efficiency, low-carbon technology heating systems in place. Gas boilers are being phased out and whilst existing properties are still able to use gas boilers for the time being, the government is encouraging more energy-efficient alternatives such as heat pumps and solar thermal systems through incentives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (sometimes called BUS). The Future Homes Standard (FHS) is introducing an initiative in 2025 which mandates that all new homes in England must be equipped with low-carbon heating systems and ensures that 75-80% less carbon emissions are being produced.
With the updated heating regulations, smart technology is being promoted using energy monitoring such as smart thermostats, alongside newer homes including systems that track and report energy usage more accurately. Knowing where to install monitoring and heat metering equipment is important to achieve this requirement and Building Control will check.
Efficient heating systems are pointless if insulation isn’t also a priority. For new builds, the latest regulation involves enhanced insulation for walls, floors, and roofs, along with upgrades to windows and doors to prevent heat loss and ensure buildings are energy efficient. Pay particular attention to U-values, as this is the measure of thermal resistance which you must comply with.
New systems must meet the Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in the UK (SEDBUK) rating of 92% or higher when replacing an old system and must include energy optimisation tools such as thermostatic controls and zones. For properties larger than 150m², they must include individual time controls for specific zones.
If you developing a building and can’t meet the regulations without a very high upfront cost then there are alternatives such as:
Many manufactures of solar panels and air source heat pumps are now offering financial backing and lease arrangements to make the purchase easier.
Some manufacturers are offering gas and air source heat pump hybrid systems that use both technologies. Alternatively you can have a heating system installed that initially runs on a gas boiler which can be replaced by an air source heat pump in the future.
If you are developer, you must take these onboard and plan to install low-carbon, energy-efficient heating systems to comply with regulations. Being informed on the current regulations ensures that you stay compliant with the goal of net-zero by 2050.
Here at BEM Services, we can assist you with all energy consultation needs and help advise on a range of solutions to ensure efficiency and compliance with UK building regulations regarding heating. Our team are experts in Part L Compliance Documents, IES Thermal Modelling, EPCs and DECs. Get in touch with us today and speak with one of our specialist team.