Energy Efficiency and Historic Buildings - Application of Part L of the Building Regulations to Historic and Traditionally Constructed Buildings

Approved Document L, which covers the conservation of fuel and power, was last amended in 2021 and came into effect in June 2022 as part of the Government’s measures to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions.

Historic England supports the Government’s aims to improve the energy efficiency of existing buildings through Part L of the Building Regulations. Improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions will ensure that existing buildings remain viable into the future. These actions also support the Government’s commitment to reach net zero by 2050.

Many improvements can be made at a relatively low cost, and with little risk. However, some require more consideration, because they have the potential to harm the building and its occupants.

For historic buildings, a balance needs to be found between improving energy efficiency and maintaining the significance of the building, its fabric and setting. Taking a Whole Building Approach is the best way to minimise the risks of energy efficiency interventions and can achieve considerable improvements, although sometimes not to the standards recommended in Building Regulations.

The Building Regulations Approved Documents (one for dwellings and one for buildings other than dwellings) for Part L make it clear that a reasonable compromise on energy efficiency targets may be acceptable to preserve a building’s character and appearance, and to avoid technical risks. They specifically include some exemptions, and also circumstances where special considerations apply to historic buildings and those of traditional construction.

Many energy efficiency measures do not need to comply with Building Regulations and do not require listed building consent. For more information, see Historic England’s Energy Efficiency and Historic Buildings.