They might sound like fierce rivals in an architectural saga, however in reality, these are the rules that shape how buildings come to life and keep you safe and warm. Having graduated from Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, I looked to expand my knowledge and experience elsewhere and landed a great opportunity at Nicholson Nairn, south of the border.
With only previous understanding of Building Standards, learning and adapting to Building Regulations highlighted that among their differences, there are similarities which reflect modern changes and drive towards a safer, greener future for the construction industry. Both Scotland and England aim for safe, energy efficient, and sustainable buildings with the transitioning goal of net zero by 2045 (Scotland) and 2050 (England).
At Nicholson Nairn Architects, we work across both realms where it is important to understand that certain materials/standards that comply on one side of the border, might not pass in the other. Among both Building Standards & Building Regulations, there are national portals that allows for electronic applications to be submitted directly to their intended Local Authority. Not only does this allow us as a practice to keep track of all ongoing applications in once place, but for our clients (applicants) it allows for direct and easy payment instantly. It should be noted however, that the processes differ and the timing of application submission can be a little more programme critical on Scottish projects.
Building codes and standards are set independently by each nation, meaning England and Scotland have their own regulations with some key differences. Both aim to ensure safety, sustainability, and accessibility in construction, but the standards are tailored to local needs and policy goals. Here are some key differences between the English Building Regulations and Scottish Building Standards:
1. Governing Legislation
England: Governed by the Building Act 1984 and Building Regulations 2010.
Scotland: Governed by the Building (Scotland) Act 2003 and associated Technical Handbooks.
2. Structure and Format
England: The Building Regulations are structured around “Approved Documents” (e.g., Part A for Structure, Part B for Fire Safety, etc.).
Scotland: Scottish Building Standards are outlined in Technical Handbooks, split into domestic and non-domestic standards with similar sections, like Structure and Fire Safety. The handbooks are more integrated, so builders have a single source for guidance.
3. Fire Safety
England: Approved Document B regulates fire safety. Recent changes require stricter materials standards, especially in high-rise residential buildings.
Scotland: Building Standards in Scotland have traditionally been more stringent on fire safety, with requirements for automatic fire suppression (sprinklers) in new high-rise flats since 2021, as well as more robust guidance on fire doors and evacuation measures.
4. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Standards
England: Energy efficiency standards are defined in Part L. In 2022, changes were made to improve the energy efficiency of new buildings in line with the Future Homes Standard, which will be fully enforced by 2025.
Scotland: Scotland has traditionally had higher standards for energy efficiency. The Scottish Government has a target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045, and this influences stricter requirements for insulation, heating systems, and building performance.
5. Accessibility Standards
England: Requirements are in Part M, with specific requirements for accessibility in residential and commercial buildings.
Scotland: Accessibility is covered in Section 4 of the Technical Handbooks, which generally includes more stringent standards for disabled access, including additional space requirements for accessibility in new homes and public buildings.
6. Approval Process
England: The process involves building control bodies, either from local authorities or private inspectors, who inspect and approve work.
Scotland: Building warrants are issued by local authorities, and each project must receive a “completion certificate” confirming compliance with standards. The local authority has greater oversight compared to England.
7. Sustainability and Climate Resilience
England: Building Regulations are adapting toward sustainable construction, but policies are more conservative.
Scotland: Scottish Building Standards incorporate greater emphasis on sustainability, climate resilience, and have more advanced requirements for insulation and ventilation due to the colder climate.
In summary, while both frameworks share the core principles of safety, accessibility, and environmental responsibility, Scottish standards are often more stringent in areas like fire safety, energy efficiency, and climate resilience. These differences reflect Scotland’s independent approach to construction, influenced by its unique legislative framework and policy priorities.
Given our experience on both sides of the border, we’re finding the greater stringencies brought into the English Building Regulations, have actually aligned a process more closely with the Scottish system. For example, we have worked with care home operators on both sides of the border and it used to amaze us quite how detailed and in depth we had to be on Scottish projects, when compared to the same scale and type of project south of the border. The difference has now, to a certain extent, be redressed.
When considering design teams, it’s vital that architectural practices (and other design disciplines) have the requisite experience and understand the intricacies associated. I hope this blog post has helped your understanding between both the Scottish & English construction industry standards and expectations. Nicholson Nairn Architects takes pride on the strong relationships and contacts we have built up over the years with both Scottish and English Authorities to proactively work together for a positive outcome for all.
By Gregory Barclay
Architectural Technologist
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