Alex

The growing demand for energy-efficient properties is more than just a trend; it’s a necessity. Yet, shockingly, more than 56% of homes in England have below-average energy efficiency, with a score of D on their EPC assessments. Besides being a significant and valuable contribution to the environment, energy-efficient measures help you save money and boost […]

Energy efficiency in the UK is a priority, given the pressing need to meet the net zero targets. This has brought about the introduction of Part L of the building regulations in new and existing buildings.

Air tightness tests are important because they measure how much air is escaping from your property’s cracks, corners, and gaps. Air leakages typically occur when the walls, ceilings, and window sills aren’t adequately insulated during construction. These checks can help identify any leaks and suggest measures to plug them, helping you save significantly on energy usage. 

The UK government is taking conscientious steps and initiatives to achieve its commitment to the net zero emissions target by 2050. The UK was the first major economy to pass laws to combat climate change, taking up various initiatives, including ending the sale of new fully petrol and diesel cars by 2030 and installing 600,000

This commitment to sustainability put the spotlight on businesses and property owners in the UK and their carbon footprint. Office spaces are increasingly designed to be more environmentally friendly as companies look to meet their internal ESG goals and overall sustainability objectives. Likewise, UK residents and property owners are becoming more conscientious about their property’s EPC checks and air-tightness assessments.

Since 2006, it’s been a mandatory requirement for all types of new builds in England and Wales to be tested for air tightness. Prior to this requirement, it was accepted that the average UK dwelling leaked air at a rate of 11.48 m³/(m² hr) @ 50 Pa. As of 2006, under the current UK building regulations, the standard permissible figures are between 3 and 8m³/(m² hr) @50 Pa.

In 2006, air-tightness testing was introduced across the UK as a conscious step towards reducing emissions, intended to create a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
As a developer, whether you’re working on a newly built estate or commercial premises, you are obligated by law to conduct air testing if the property is larger than 500m in size.

An air tightness test also known as an air leakage or air permeability test is a legal requirement in the UK for selling or buying any property larger than 500m2. This test ensures that your property conforms to environmental and safety legislation and does not leak or retain too much air.

While it is essential to get certified, your commercial building’s air tightness also speaks volumes about indoor air quality. Whether it’s gaining insights into indoor air quality or meeting necessary regulations, an air tightness test identifies problem areas and suggests the right fixes.

You may also be wondering how to get an epc certificate for your property. Well, the process is very simple and straightforward and the experienced technicians at Gio Property Solutions are more than happy to do yours, ensuring an easy experience from start to finish, saving you valuable time and efforts.

We all understand to a certain extent that EPCs are important, but how much do we really know about them? In this blog, we will clear some common misconceptions in regard to an epc certifications.