Windows & Door Security Building Regulations

Part Q Guidelines

Back in October 2015, the building regulations for England were amended through the introduction of ‘Part Q’ to introduce new requirements for window and door security standards in new build homes. Note: This new regulation also covers new homes created by change of use, for example a barn conversation as well as any part of a building from which access can be gained to a flat within the building. 

It is important to note that Part Q does not apply when you are just replacing windows and doors in your existing home.

What Specifically Do The Regulations Ask You To Do?

Does this sound like this is relevant for you? Are you adding in windows and doors to a new property where building work was started after 1st October 2015? If your answer is yes, then you need to ensure that you can prove that all your windows and doors were designed to reasonably resist unauthorised access to intruders; and that your windows and doors have passed the test requirements of PAS24: 2012.

PAS24:2012 - The Regulations Explained

PAS24 is the specific part of the building regulations that applies to enhancing security standards for both windows and doors.

You should look for windows and door sets that have been tested by replicating the forces that would be applied by an ‘opportunistic’ intruder. Note: All hardware and potential access points on doors and windows should have been tested and in addition tested for enhanced security against opportunistic intruder attacks, rather than a specific test of individual hardware components.

Here is a list of the elements that are tested for enhanced security:

• Manipulation test of hardware
• Cutting and infill medium removal test
• Mechanical loading
• Manual check test
• Hard/soft body impact

Next Steps

Any good window and door company will be able to demonstrate that the windows and doors you are buying from them are compliant to the new regulations, they will also provide you with all the paper work that you will need to share with the Planning Officers.

Still confused? Then call Evolution Windows today to speak to one of our highly experienced Customer Service Team. We know all about the regulations and we can support you through the Building Regulations process.