Approved Document F – Domestic Ventilation v2026

There is stricter ventilation requirements coming in 2027

Housebuilders and housing providers in England and Wales will face tougher rules on how ventilation systems are designed, installed, tested, and certified when updated Building Regulations take effect in 2027.  There will be:

Greater emphasis on competence and documentation

The standards increase expectations around:

• Competence of those carrying out ventilation work
• Proper commissioning records
• Clear handover information for building control and occupants

More detailed ductwork rules

For continuous mechanical ventilation systems:

• Rigid or smooth semi‑rigid ducts are expected
• Flexible ducting only allowed for short final connections
• Long duct runs may require supporting calculations and drawings for Building Control