PAS 2035:2023
We stand at the cusp of a significant transition! The PAS 2035, the UK’s benchmark for retrofitting residences, is undergoing a pivotal transformation. The 2019 version, is gradually making way for its successor – the 2023 version.
This changeover isn’t just a shift in numbers, but a leap towards progress. The 2023 version is set to become the mandatory standard by the end of March 2025, replacing the 2019 version in its entirety.
But what does this transition entail? It’s not merely a change of date, but a shift in approach, methodology, and standards. The 2023 version brings with it some fundamental differences compared to its predecessor. These include…
Process:
- A medium-term improvement plan is now required for all properties
- Risk Paths have been removed procedure has been removed
- Fabric first has been watered down a little by allowing the prioritising of replacing distressed heating appliances and installations
- The Retrofit Coordinator has an additional responsibility to collect evidence that the installation of EEMs has been undertaken correctly. This may include an in-person or virtual/remote site inspection.
- The Retrofit Coordinator must develop an evaluation plan.
Qualifications:
The Environment Study Centre offers all relevant qualifications needed for PAS 2035 – find a course here
- Retrofit Assessors: RICS members can now undertake this role.
- Retrofit Coordinators: The criteria have been updated in line with the number of measures approach but remain the same.
- Retrofit Designer: The criteria have been updated in line with the number of measures approach. Only a suitable qualified Retrofit Designer can undertake this task and not the Retrofit Coordinator.
- Responsibility for design rests with the Retrofit Designer, and not with the Retrofit Coordinator.
- Retrofit Coordinators will for the first time require the Level 3 Award qualification in traditional building retrofit if working with traditional or protected buildings. This is the same for Retrofit Assessors and unless Designers are conservation accredited or certified they also require the same qualification.
Significance Assessment:
- PAS 2035 (2023) now includes a more detailed explanation with respect to significance assessments for buildings with aspects of significance, as well as a predefined survey checklist.
Dive Deeper into PAS 2035: A Call to Professionals
Learn with the experts – take a look at our industry-leading Level 3 Award in Energy Efficiency for Older and Traditional Buildings – 2 Day Retrofit Course to get the best understanding of PAS 2035 and more.
Watch Professor Edwards’ video on Applying BSI’s PAS 2035:2023 video on the IHBC YouTube channel here.
BSI have made available both PAS 2030 and PAS 2035 2023 versions completely free of charge and you can down load them here PAS 2035:2023 Retrofitting Dwellings | BSI (bsigroup.com)
Our leading expert on retrofit Professor John Edwards said: “Overall, these changes have improved PAS 2035 and they should be welcomed, but I would have hoped it had gone a little further”. Professor Edwards added: “One example of this is that the lowest level of competency required for a retrofit assessor is still far too low, but at least there is a positive mention of RICS Members, although the wording is a little confusing”.
Make sure you are ready for PAS 2035: 2023 and contact us if you need any help.
