The scale of the building performance challenge has been highlighted in a recent UK Construction Week survey, with nearly three quarters of respondents naming ‘building performance’ as a key consideration.
The Building Performance Challenge Survey is an industry-wide study into the fundamental challenges encountered across the lifespan of a commercial property.
The survey, in partnership with the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA), revealed that the majority of respondents (72%) class building performance as one of the most important features in a commercial building, with design (60%) and sustainability (56%) also cited as crucial attributes.
Interestingly, a highly significant 67% of respondents identified a lack of knowledge as a serious issue in preventing buildings being run more efficiently, highlighting that more needs to be done in terms of education and training.
This is perhaps further substantiated by the fact that 67% of those asked were unaware of the Minimum Energy Performance Standard (MEPS) coming into force in April next year and 54% were unsure as to whether Part L of the Building Regulations meets the needs of the industry.
When asked ‘What do you believe to be the key attributes in achieving a higher energy efficiency rating?’, 81% acknowledged that implementing building controls and systems would make a real difference. A modern HVAC system and using LED lights also figured prominently, cited by 54% and 51% of respondents respectively.
Highlighting the scale of the challenge surrounding overall building performance, an overwhelming 98% of respondents agreed that more consideration should be put into long-term building performance.
Commenting on the findings, Nathan Garnett, Event Director for UK Construction Week, said: “Rising energy costs, changes to legislation and environmental concerns are all contributing factors in the shift towards more efficient commercial buildings.
“This survey has clearly shown that the industry is acutely aware of the issues surrounding building performance and recognises the challenges that lie ahead in tackling inefficiency and improving knowledge and skills.”
“Events such as UK Construction Week bring the industry together to discuss the opportunities and challenges that will shape our future, offering unique insights and invaluable expert advice.”
As the largest construction event in the UK, attracting in excess of 30,000 visitors, UK Construction Week is committed to tackling the issues that really matter to attendees, exhibitors and other industry stakeholders and the annual survey plays a key role in identifying potential problems and trends.
UK Construction Week will take place from 10th-12th October at the NEC in Birmingham and will consist of nine specialist shows under one roof. Entry is free of charge and visitors can register now at
www.ukconstructionweek.com/register
Press Release – UKCW survey FINAL