Strengthening the Building Regulations to improve the energy efficiency of our buildings and to help meet this country’s ambitious zero-carbon targets is admirable, and I’m wholeheartedly in support (“Part L changes announced,” 12 March, building.co.uk)

But, as is so often the case, the devil is in the detail. On that, we will have to wait until the government publishes its supporting technical documents and compliance guidelines.

The initial focus seems to be on new build but of equal importance is addressing the refurbishment, extension and material change of use market. In the domestic sector this means getting the message about revised regulations through to a highly fragmented market. Too often, well-meaning policy underachieves due to ineffectual guidance, which leads to confusion and frustration. Of course, it’s a two-way street and large and small-scale builders alike need to do their homework and ensure they are fully aware of the multitude of options, products and systems that are available to help them comply with these changes to building regulations.

The importance of the next six months cannot be underestimated, as, come October when the changes take effect, we need the industry to be poised for action if the standards are to be met and the benefits felt.

Paul Roche, managing director, SIG Sustainable Solutions

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