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New criteria in the Building Regulations Document L2 for specific areas involving airseal / insulation properties We work alongside the nominated testing bodies to complete the airtest. Q - My structure is a lot bigger than 1000 m2. Is this too large to air pressure test? A - Only the very largest of buildings may be too big to test (such as Terminal 5 perhaps). At least one company claims to be able to test around 99% of the buildings in the Glannagans Guide. Q - Who pays for these tests? A - The persons who have ordered the building works or their contractors. Q - How do the guidelines apply if I am dividing the main structure into separate units? A - If the building is to be divided into smaller units then each one must comply with the requirements in Part L2. If an upper level was to be made in to flats then they must comply with Part L1. Q - How do I apply these guidelines if I just want to refurbish a premises? A - Where a building other than a dwelling is to be refurbished the works must comply with the Building Regulations, if they constitute a material alteration, a material change of use, or the provision or extension of a controlled service or fitting. Controlled services or fittings now include replacing windows and work on energy consuming building services. Q - Do the new regulations mean I need a 'Competent Person' to certify that the building fabric and services comply with Part L? A - There is no legal requirement to have a competent person to certify compliance. The builder has to show compliance - there is no change here from what has always been the case. The Approved Document says that a way of showing compliance would be for the builder or their expert consultant to declare or certify that the building fabric has achieved compliance with Part L2 (a) and that the building services have achieved compliance with Part L2 (c), (e), (f) and (g). Paragraphs 2.3 and 2.7 of AD L2 say that Building Control Bodies may accept such evidence depending upon their view of the credentials of the in-house expert or the consultant. To minimise the risk of difficulties, it is important to agree with the L2 BCB at the outset that your tester's reports or certificates will be acceptable to them as a basis for judging compliance.