Part L and Section 6
Ensuring new and existing roofs are well insulated is a key priority as the UK looks to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 (2045 in Scotland). To help achieve this, the Building Regulations and Standards set out clear performance targets which projects must meet, including thermal performance requirements for roofs.
As control of the Building Regulations has been devolved, these requirements will vary depending on whether your project is located in England, Scotland or Wales. The requirements are contained in Part L to the Building Regulations in England and Wales, and Section 6 of the Building Standards in Scotland. The regulations in each region are supported with official guidance documents which set out how project teams can comply with the regulations. These are known as Approved Document L in England and Wales and Technical Handbook 6 in Scotland.
During the course of 2022, new updates were introduced to these regulations in each country. A summary of these changes is contained below:
Country and Building Type | Relevant Guidance Document | Changes Came Into Force |
England Domestic | Approved Document L1 2021 | 15th June 2022 |
England Non-Domestic | Approved Document L2 2021 | 15th June 2022 |
Scotland Domestic | Technical Handbook 6 2022 | 1st February 2023 |
Scotland Non-Domestic | Technical Handbook 6 2022 | 1st February 2023 |
Wales Domestic | Approved Document L1 2022 | 23rd November 2022 |
Wales Non-Domestic | Approved Document L2 2022 | 29th March 2023 |
We have created a summary of the key requirements for flat roofs within each of these updated documents which can be accessed below:
It is important to note that in addition to these energy performance requirements, further requirements may apply to flat roof insulation, particularly in relation to reaction to fire performance. Our design team can work with you to find a fully compliant flat roof insulation solution for your project.
