Guide to Conversion of Traditional Buildings

An introduction to energy standards in traditional buildings

Section 6.0 of the Technical Handbooks sets out background, context and rationale behind all aspects of Section 6 of the building standards. It begins with a brief history of legislation and strategies that underpin the need to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency. A critical factor in all subsequent guidance is the legal requirement for the Scottish Government to reach net zero by 2045.

This goal has been supported by a dual commitment to incrementally improving the fabric energy efficiency of buildings, while also increasing the efficiency of building services, including the use of renewable or clean heat technologies. An important milestone was reached in April 2024 when it was mandated that all new buildings will use only heating systems that produce zero direct emissions at point of use.

The above provision only applies to new buildings, but the point is emphasised that the combined drive to improve fabric efficiency with efficient and clean heat technologies infers a responsibility upon designers to consider building design and servicing in a holistic way.

Section 6 should be read in conjunction with all the technical standards and guidance but has particularly close affiliation with Section 3: Environment.

Within clause 6.0.3, clarity is given on the extent of applicability of the standards in relation to existing buildings. As with other standards, the energy standards apply to conversions and works to existing buildings such as extensions, conservatories, alterations and replacement work. However, in some situations (for example traditional buildings), individual standards may not apply, or guidance on compliance with the standards may differ for such work. The latter is usually to recognise typical constraints that arise when working with existing buildings.

In the first instance, it is advisable to check the functional standard, as sometimes a limitation removes certain classes of this type of work. Where not excepted by a limitation to a standard, the provisions of the standard will apply in full to the new work on the existing building, other than where proposed works are wholly categorised as a conversion, where the standard in question may be met as far as is reasonably practicable. This is identified in the introduction to the guidance supporting each standard.