Part Q changes

Part F, B, A, Q… they all mean something and I’m sure you’re all very familiar with all of them!

Today’s focus is on Part Q, and any human-bots about to build new dwellings must take note… these changes come into force on October 1^st – tomorrow!

Approved Document Q (Security – Dwellings) is applicable “in relation to new dwellings and provides that reasonable provision must be made to resist unauthorised access to any dwelling; and any part of a building from which access can be gained to a flat within the building.”

The changes only affect projects that commence after October 1^st and apply only to NEW dwellings, not existing buildings – however will apply to extensions to existing buildings.

For all you Liniar customers out there, we’re pleased to tell you that our super future proof system is already way ahead of the game!

You already know we like to put our products through their paces (both independently and also by me!) – and we’re very proud to say that our window system has been tested and verified by the British Standards Institute, so you’ll be fully compliant if you install Liniar windows.

We’ve been able to meet PAS24:2012 (the main requirement of Part Q/Approved Document Q) with reduced steel in our frames but no loss in strength or robustness – this helps keep Liniar windows more energy efficient.

See our individual product pages which feature a handy guide to the various accreditations each one has achieved.

Now for the boring bit… this is what the new regulations state:

Windows

Windows should be made to a design that has been shown by test to meet the security requirements of British Standards publication PAS24:2012.

Windows meeting other standards that provide similar or better performance are also accepted:

• STS 204 Issue 3:2012
• LPS 1175 Issue 7:2010 security rating 1
• LPS 2081 Issue 1:2015 security rating A

Frames should be mechanically fixed to the structure of the building in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.

Doors

Doors should be either:

Manufactured to a design that has been shown by test to meet the security requirements of British Standards PAS:24:2012 or,

1. Designed and manufactured in accordance with Appendix B.

Door sets meeting other standards that provide similar or better performance are also accepted:

•  STS 201 Issue 5:2013
• LPS 1175 Issue 7:2012 security rating 2
• STS 202 Issue 3:2011 burglary rating 2
• LPS 2081 issue 1:2015 security rating B

Frames should be mechanically fixed to the structure of the building in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.

Letter boxes

Letter boxes should have a maximum aperture of 260mm x 40mm and should be located/designed to stop anyone attempting to remove keys from the inside of the door with sticks or their hands. Letters only please :)

Door Viewers

Main doors for entering a dwelling should also have a door viewer or a means to see callers such as clear glass or a window next to the door. It should also have a door chain or limiter. There are exceptions to this, for example, in sheltered housing where someone may need emergency access.

Whew! I think that covers the main points – but you can download a full copy of Approved Document Q from our Downloads page if you’d like to read it in full.

You can also view our Specification guide here – or get in touch if you have any questions.

Until next time!

Mark II