Building Regulations in the United Kingdom

Within the UK, building standards are controlled by the Building Regulations. Working guidelines are given through the publication of “Approved Documents”

Total Installations fully understands the requirements of Building Regulations and can advise clients how to meet the necessary regulations.  An overview of relevant Building Regulations can be found below.

The following is a summary of the “parts” which are most relevant to windows & doors with a brief insight into the practical implications.



Part B
Part B scope covers means of escape, internal and external fire spread and fire service access. The aim is to ensure that all occupants can escape and to assist fire-fighters in saving lives. Window designs allowing minimum opening dimensions and areas and meeting the stipulations of the Approved Document, are available from Total

Part F
Part F scope covers natural and mechanical ventilation. The Approved document provides guidance on ventilation rates for rooms with openable windows, including the size of the opening needed for the background ventilation. Recommends extract rates for rooms with mechanical ventilation.

Part K
Part K scope covers protection from falling, collision and impact. It provides guidance on window design with regards to ensuring people cannot walk into a opened window (not applicable to dwellings) and directs you towards Part N where glazing is used as part of the guarding against falling such as windows adjacent to stairs.

Part L
Part L scope covers Conservation of Fuel & Power and is concerned with limiting heat loss through the fabric of the building. The window designer is required to demonstrate compliance through its choice of components and materials. Air leakage and cold bridging are relevant as is the sealing of the window to the substrate.

Part M
Part M scope covers Access and Facilities for disabled people. At a glance, Newbuild homes are covered by Part M, Refurbishment is covered by the 1995 Disability Discrimination Act. Part M provides guidance on: Designing the approaches to buildings and dwellings, Guidance on access to buildings and dwellings, Guidance on entrance doors and lobbies, Guidance on design for access within a building.

Part N
Part N scope covers Glazing materials and protection. Glazing used in the vicinity of the floor and in or near doors usually requires safety glazing (toughened or laminated) complying with the requirements of the relevant BS requirements. Compliance requires the presence of a permanent certifying mark on each item of glazing. The building codes identify the locations that are considered to be critical in terms of glass safety