BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit-Out V7
BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit-Out V7 has landed and it is more than just an update
The long awaited successor to BREEAM UK Refurbishment and Fit-Out 2014 is here, bringing a sharper focus on performance, carbon, resilience and real world outcomes.
Registration dates are still to be confirmed, but once announced there will be a three month crossover period to register projects under the 2014 scheme. In short: now is the time to understand what has changed.
One update. Two sharper routes
Like busses, you wait ages for one to come and then two arrive at once; Rather than one all-encompassing scheme, V7 introduces two distinct routes:
Refurbishment V7 keeps the familiar four-part structure, while the new Fit-Out V7 is aimed at Tenant led and interior focused projects where the basebuild, structure and core services are largely outside the project scope.
For many CAT B fit-outs that is a welcome change. The scheme is more targeted, more relevant and better aligned with the way these projects are actually delivered.
The result should be a more practical route for projects where the sustainability opportunity sits within the fit-out rather than the wider building fabric and is a welcome addition to the BREEAM suite of schemes.
Closer Alignment with New Construction V7
For project teams already getting to grips with BREEAM New Construction V7, much of the direction of travel will feel familiar. The intent is clear: greater consistency across schemes and a stronger emphasis on measurable performance.
The update pushes refurbishment and fit-out projects to think harder about energy efficiency, operational outcomes, whole life carbon, occupant comfort and future climate risk.
Key changes include:
More emphasis on operational energy modelling with additional credits for performance, demand response and controls that optimise efficiency.
Greater focus on whole life carbon assessment, including benchmark comparisons and post-construction review.
The headline difference from New Construction is the new Resilience section introduced into both Refurbishment V7 and Fit-Out V7.
Resilience Moves Centre Stage
The new Resilience section encourages measures that ‘respond to climate and environmental risks that are becoming increasingly significant’. Something we can all relate to as we contend with the current heat waves and watch the news of terrifying wildfires across Europe.
New issues under Resilience address natural hazards and climate change, other issues such as flood and surface water management, security and durability & resilience are existing credits, rebadged and incorporated into the Resilience section.
A Step Change for Project Teams
For teams used to the 2014 requirements, V7 will bring a steeper learning curve. The principles may be familiar, but the evidence, modelling and coordination requirements are stronger.
Early assessment, clear strategy and good coordination will be key to avoiding surprises later in the design and construction process.
At KJ Tait, our BREEAM Assessors can help Project Teams understand the new requirements, identify the right assessment route and build a practical strategy from the outset.
If you are planning a refurbishment or fit-out and want to understand what V7 means for your project, get in touch at kjt.BREEAM@kjtait.com