Thermal element

Thermal element, is a wall, floor or roof, which separates the heated part of the building from outside or an unheated space.
Renovation in relation to a thermal element is the provision of a new layer in the thermal element or the replacement of an existing layer, but excluding decorative finishes.

Changes to Building Regulations

Changes to Building Regulations in April 2006 mean that if you undertake any of the following:

Fix a leaky roof by adding roofing underlay
Change the roof tiles
re-felted a flat roof

you also have to upgrade the roof insulation.

To ensure this is done correctly you have to make an application for Building Regulations approval (for both domestic and commercial properties). Failure to make an application is a contravention of building regulations and as the owner of the property you are liable to prosecution.

In building regulation terminology this is described as the 'renovation of thermal elements', and can also apply to work on walls and floors.

The purpose of providing insulation when renovating a thermal element is to limit heat loss through the thermal elements of the building fabric. This is one way the Government is able to improve the country's existing housing stock, in order to achieve reductions in carbon emissions.

Table A1 within Appendix A of Approved Document L1B (This link will open in a new window) details all the variations in work to thermal elements, and what level of construction is expected.

It may not always be appropriate or practical to try and achieve the level of insulation stated in the guidance to the Regulations. Please contact Building Control to agree what applies to your particular project.