On 24th March, the UK Government published its response to The Future Homes and Buildings Standards: 2023 consultation, alongside details of the forthcoming Approved Document L (2026).
LEIA submitted a formal response to the consultation in early 2024. Nick Mellor and Micky Grover-White also met with the team responsible for drafting the updated guidance, particularly in relation to the proposed inclusion of lifts and . We welcome the incorporation of some of our key comments into the final response.
Lifts and escalators brought into scope of Building Regulations
A key outcome of the consultation is the decision to revise the definition of fixed building services to include lifts, escalators and moving. These systems will now fall within the scope of Building Regulations under Approved Document L, including energy performance considerations.
Greater focus on energy performance
The updated guidance introduces new expectations around the energy performance of lifts, with different standards depending on the type and use of the system.
This reflects a wider industry shift towards improving the energy efficiency of buildings and their associated systems, as part of the UK’s broader sustainability objectives.
Proportionate approach to implementation
The Government has confirmed that the additional commissioning requirements included in the consultation will not be introduced. This ensures a more proportionate approach, avoiding unnecessary complexity while still supporting improvements in overall building performance.
What this means for building owners and developers
For building owners, developers and those involved in building design, these changes highlight the growing importance of considering lift and escalator performance as part of overall energy strategies.
This is particularly relevant for:
- New building projects
- Major refurbishments or upgrades
- Long-term asset management and sustainability planning
Implementation timeline
The changes set out in Approved Document L are due to come into force on 24th March 2027 for use in England for building work that is not in connection with higher-risk building work and on 24th September 2027 for building work that is in connection with higher-risk building work, providing the industry with time to prepare for the new requirements.
Next steps
These developments represent an important step in recognising the role of lifts and escalators within the overall energy performance of buildings. LEIA will continue to review the detail and provide further updates and guidance to support both members and the wider industry.