Simplified Method Assessments

We provide reviews of new residential buildings to determine whether they can satisfy the Simplified Method as set out in Approved Document O.

We consider:

The location and orientation
Whether there is single-sided or cross-ventilation
The dimensions of each residential space
The glazed areas and glazing openings
Whether any shading is required
The heating and hot water strategy

To accompany this study we provide an initial site constraints assessment, with guidance on the likelihood that the Simplified Method can be used.

We then work with you to update the architectural design accordingly, before we report on the strategy.

Overheating in buildings has been highlighted as a key risk for the health and productivity of people and businesses in the UK

It is estimated that there are about 2,000 heat-related deaths each year in England and Wales.

This has led to new regulations to ensure occupants in new residential buildings do not suffer excessive temperatures.

Approved Document O England

Approved Document O (2021 edition – England) was released in December 2021 and came into force for all Building Regulations building notices, full plans applications and initial notices for residential buildings submitted in England from 15 June 2022.

Approved Document O Wales

Approved Document O (2022 edition – Wales) was released in May 2022 and came into force for all Building Regulations building notices, full plans applications and initial notices for residential buildings submitted in Wales from 23 November 2022.

Scottish Building Standard 3.28

Standard 3.28 of the Scottish Building Standards Domestic Technical Handbook (December 2022 edition) was released in June 2022 and came into force for all residential Building Warrant applications submitted in Scotland from 01 February 2023.