New homes - enhancing accessibility, adaptability and usability: consultation analysis

15. HfVN Part 1 Section 17: Heating, ventilating and water services

An analysis of responses to Question 35 is presented in this section.

Question 35. How do you feel about the proposals for Section 17 of Part 1 of the current guide?

Over half 56% of those answering agreed with all the proposals for Section 17 of Part 1 of the current guide (as set out in Annex Q of the consultation paper), 31% agreed with some, 1% disagreed with all and 12% were neutral. Agreement was higher among individuals, 79% of whom agreed with all the proposals, compared to 52% of organisations.

Conflict with other policies and priorities

Nearly two-fifths of all respondents commented in response to Question 35. Some were concerned that some of the proposals contradict other Scottish Government policies and priorities related to energy efficiency. For example, some suggested that the proposal for clause 17.1.4 misaligns with policies related to low carbon heating and Energy Performance Certification.

Possible misalignment with other standards

Similarly, some queried whether the proposals align with other standards. Clause 17.3.1, which calls for an electrically operated stopcock on the mains water supply to be provided in dwellings specifically for older and disabled people, was identified by some as potentially conflicting with an incoming main for sprinklers, while a few felt Section 16 could limit the ability to place radiators under windows. One noted that larger radiators may be required to achieve the temperatures specified in clause 17.1.6 (in dwellings specifically for older and disabled people), and this could impact other clauses such as those related to the layout of furniture.

Opposition to implementing clauses ‘as standard’

Implementing clauses ‘as standard’ was opposed by some respondents. However, two respondents identified clauses they felt should be applied ‘as standard’ for all dwellings. One felt electronically operated stopcocks on mains water supplies should be in all homes as standard, while another proposed that the heating temperature in clause 17.1.6 and requirements for guarded radiators and lagging on all exposed hot water pipes which could be touched accidentally should apply to all dwellings.

Technical challenges

Some respondents questioned the feasibility of the proposal for clause 17.2.1, which calls for adults to be able to control ventilation while standing on the floor. They explained this may not be possible because trickle vents are placed at the head of windows, which are generally above the average reach height specified in the existing guide of 1800mm from the floor.