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The drive towards increasing insulation in homes to reduce heating costs this winter could exacerbate mould problems if ventilation is not considered at the same time, meaning that a health crisis may also be imminent. Action must be taken to ensure building regulations are stringently adhered to.
Designed to make regulations accessible, the guidance, titled New Regulatory Requirements For Ventilation In Existing Homes And Your Responsibility, is broken down into three parts:
Ventilation in a dwelling is vital for the health and well-being of its occupants. If the performance or fitting of ventilation units or systems in a dwelling do not meet specific requirements and performance standards, levels of indoor air pollutants may rise above safe levels, breaching regulations.
High levels of indoor air pollutants can have a potentially serious impact on the health of those living in a dwelling, contributing to conditions including asthma, heart disease, dementia and even cancer.
As detailed in the new ventilation standards introduced on 15 June 2022, it is the explicit responsibility of a building contractor, sub-contractor or installer to ensure that all work complies with and meets building regulation requirements.
Following the correct procedures is crucial to meeting the latest technical performance standards, which ensure that ventilation in a dwelling is safe and fit for purpose, under inspection from a buildings inspector or building control officer.
Commenting on the guides, Director of Technology Sectors at BEAMA, Colin Timmins, who manages the BEAMA Ventilation Group, stated: "With the recent introduction of new Building Regulations and a potential health crisis looming this winter, it is essential that installers and contractors across the country have the insight they need to effectively deliver adequate ventilation.
"By simplifying Approved Document Part F on Ventilation, our three latest bitesize guides reflect BEAMA’s commitment to driving higher standards by providing clear and effective guidance to those who need it".
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