Building Regulations apply to the construction of new buildings and to extensions and material alterations to existing buildings. In addition, certain Parts of the Regulations, including Part L, apply to existing buildings where a material change of use takes place. It states - The 2022 Irish Building Regulations Part -L Conservation of Fuel and Energy - Dwellings requirements shall be met by the following outline methods.
(a) providing that the energy performance of the dwelling is such as to limit the calculated primary energy consumption and related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions insofar as is reasonably practicable, when both energy consumption and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are calculated using the Dwelling Energy Assessment Procedure (DEAP) published by Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland ( A Building Energy Rating Certificate)
(b) providing that, for new dwellings, a reasonable proportion of the energy consumption to meet the energy performance of a dwelling is provided by renewable energy sources.
(c) limiting heat loss and, where appropriate, availing of heat gain through the fabric of the building;
(d) providing and commissioning energy efficient space and water heating systems with efficient heat sources and effective controls;
(e) providing to the dwelling owner sufficient information about the building, the fixed building services and their maintenance requirements so that the building can be operated in such a manner as to use no more fuel and energy than is reasonable.
Navitus offer a specification and design service aimed at ensuring TGD Part L compliance, this is generally a prerequisite from most Local Authorities at the Planning Permission stage. This report will detail insulation requirements, U Value targets and elemental build up of walls, floors and roofs. Target specification for windows and doors. Ratio of glazing to floor area, air tightness targets, heating and ventilation options and renewable energy options. The end user will be armed with a Part L Compliance Report which can be incorporated into tender documentation and issued to builders, once on site.
