RFO Commercial V7

Asset classification – co-living developments - KBCN1568

This guidance is intended as a general reference only. Each co-living development will include a different combination of residential accommodation and managed communal spaces. Assessors must apply professional judgement to determine the most appropriate asset classification. Typical characteristics of co-living developments Developments within these sectors typically include the following characteristics:

Institutional ownership and professional management Purpose built for rental as the primary function, rather than individual sale, and owned by a single entity with professional property management in place.
Self-contained, functional units Residential apartments with private kitchens and bathrooms.
Managed communal facilities Extensive shared amenities, such as fitness suites, co-working areas, communal terraces, and secure bicycle storage.
Flexible, long-term tenancy Tenancy agreements are generally designed for longer term occupation, typically six to twelve months.

Classification guidance International assets: The following classifications are recommended:

Assessment Type	Recommended Classification
International New Construction, International Refurbishment and Fit-Out (will become Refurbishment and Fit-out from V7 onwards)	Residential institutions- long term Stay*
BREEAM In Use (BIU)	Residential

*Assessors should also consider how the asset is classified under relevant local building regulations to support the interpretation of Residential Institution. UK NC assets (KBCN1225, provides additional clarification): Using Building Regulations classifications as a guide

Part L, Volume 1 (Dwellings): Classified as Residential, covered under UKNCR (formerly known as HQM).
Part L, Volume 2 (Buildings other than dwellings): Classified as a Residential Institution, covered under UK New Construction.

17-Jun-2026 - Guidance revised and updated for clarity

BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out V 7 – FAQs - KBCN1891

The FAQ webpage provides clarification and guidance on aspects of BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out Commercial Version 7 (RFO V7). It is intended to address questions and highlight key changes from previous versions. Further guidance is provided within the published technical manual, and this will be supplemented by Knowledge Base Compliance Notes (KBCNs). To view the list of FAQs, please refer to the RFO Version 7 FAQs webpage

Capital cost reporting and LCC measured area - KBCN0438

When assessing the Capital cost reporting and the LCC credits, the area to be considered should be the Gross Internal Floor Area (GIFA), according to the below RICS definition: Gross Internal Floor Area Gross Internal Floor Area is the area of a building measured to the internal face of the perimeter walls at each floor level, which includes:

Areas occupied by internal walls and partitions
Columns, piers chimney breasts, stairwells, lift-wells, other internal projections, vertical ducts, and the like
Atria and entrance halls with clear height above, measured at base level only
Internal open sided balconies, walkways, and the like
Structural, raked or stepped floors are treated as a level floor measured horizontally
Horizontal floors with permanent access below structural, raked or stepped floors
Corridors of a permanent essential nature (e.g. fire corridors, smoke lobbies, etc.)
Areas in the roof space intended for use with permanent access (BCIS)
Mezzanine areas intended for use with permanent access
Lift rooms, plant rooms, fuel stores, tank rooms which are housed in a covered structure of a permanent nature, whether or not above main roof level
Service accommodation such as toilets, toilet lobbies, bathrooms, showers, changing rooms, cleaners’ rooms and the like
Projection rooms
Voids over stairwells and lift shafts on upper floors
Loading bays
Areas with a headroom of less than 1.5m
Pavement vaults
Garages
Conservatories (BCIS)

And excludes:

Perimeter wall thickness and external projections
External open-sided balconies, covered ways and fire escapes
Canopies
Voids over or under structural, raked or stepped floors
Greenhouses, garden stores, fuel stores and the like in residential property
Open ground floors and the like (BCIS)

14.02.18 - KBCN content amended to extend the applicability to LCC and to refer to GIFA rather than GEA, to reflect current industry practice.

Car sharing – aim and principles - KBCN1510

Aim The aim of this measure is that the asset’s management establishes, promotes and administers a process which encourages building users to share private car journeys to and from work, reducing the number of cars used for this purpose. Principles A car sharing group will, generally:

Be available to all building users who normally travel to work by private car.

A car sharing group is not:

A vehicle hire/loan scheme.
Intended to offset journeys which would otherwise have been made by public transport or active travel modes (e.g. walking or cycling).

The criteria do not prescribe what terms and conditions should be implemented and, whilst the above principles should generally be followed, specific arrangements may vary. Evidence and justification must always be provided to demonstrate that the above aim is met.

21-Jul-2026 - Scheme applicability updated. Title updated for clarity and consistency.

Car sharing – calculation of priority spaces - KBCN0282

The calculation of priority spaces for car sharers should account only for the car parking capacity that is dedicated to the staff working in the building, without considering spaces for customers or visitors. Car sharing spaces should be clearly segregated from customer / visitor parking areas.

21-Jul-2026 - Scheme applicability updated.
06-Sep-2023 - Title updated to align with naming protocol.
23-Mar-2017 - Note added clarifying requirement for segregation.

Car sharing – location of priority parking - KBCN0796

Priority spaces for car sharers need to be located in the nearest available parking area to the main building entrance or to an entrance regularly used by the car sharers. For refurbishment projects, this applies regardless of whether external works or changes to car parking areas are within the scope of works. Assigning and clearly marking out the location of priority parking spaces is a measure that can be taken by any project regardless of scope, provided there are suitable external parking areas.

21-Jul-2026 - Scheme applicability updated. Wording expanded to clarify how KBCN applies to refurbishment projects. Title updated for consistency.
22-Sep-2022 - Applied to UK NC 2018.

Car sharing – speculative projects - KBCN0878

This measure will generally be unavailable to speculative projects. To fully implement the car sharing option, the building occupants need to be known and signed up to a car sharing scheme in line with the criteria.

21-Jul-2026 - Scheme applicability updated. Title updated for clarity.

Considerate Constructors Scheme – International projects - KBCN1451

Where the Considerate Constructors Scheme is available outside the UK, this can can be considered as a 'BREEAM compliant' scheme for the purposes of this Issue.

Considerate Constructors Scheme – Phased developments - KBCN0328

The Considerate Constructors Scheme does make provision for phased developments within the registration process, allowing each phase to be registered separately. They make this provision to allow for very large developments that may go on over several years. It should therefore be possible for the developer to register the site in phases, so that CCS certificates can be submitted for BREEAM assessed buildings, without having to wait for the completion of the final phase.

Definition of concourse - KBCN0386

A concourse is an open area within or in front of a public building which is used primarily for circulation, short term waiting, or incidental interaction, analogous to the concourse of a train station. It should not be considered occupied space.

Definition – Reused in situ - KBCN1902

Definition A material qualifies as reused in situ where it meets all of the following:

It is removed from its original position or original application within the building.
It undergoes no more than minor processing that does not alter its fundamental nature (e.g. cleaning, cutting, fixing to other materials).
It is reinstalled in a different position or a different application within the building (or reused elsewhere within the project).

Exclusion Materials that remain in their original location and application throughout the works, including where they undergo minor processing such as cleaning, repair or redecoration, are considered as retained. These must be excluded from the Mat 03 calculator.

Early design phase LCA submission – Modified planning applications - KBCN1893

Requirement In the Mat 01 Methodology, M1.2 requires the early design phase LCA to be completed and submitted to BREEAM within 20 working days of submission of the planning application. Intent This requirement is in place to ensure that the LCA is carried out during the early design stages and can meaningfully influence material selection and key design decisions, before the planning application fixes significant aspects of the external specification. The timeframe of 20 working days post-planning submission is a concession to allow project teams to collate the LCA evidence for submission to BREEAM. Submission of the planning application In this context, this is the application that specifies and fixes the external products and materials that are considered in the LCA. By default, this is considered as the first application. However, it may also be:

A supplementary modified application, where a staged submission process is used

A replacement modified application, due to a major redesign

Where the requirement is applied to a supplementary or replacement application, the project team must provide additional evidence to demonstrate that the intent is met. Additional evidence

Confirmation of the date of the original planning application and the date of the modified application.

A description of what the modified application changes, with reference to the relevant submission documents.

Evidence that the modification significantly affects external products or materials specification, e.g. revised elevations, façade specification, external material schedules

Justification of how the early design LCA submitted in relation to the modified application was still capable of influencing relevant design decisions

Elemental LCC and options appraisal timing - KBCN1889

The elemental LCC should be undertaken as part of the strategic options appraisal process and used to inform the selection of significant building elements and systems, such as the structure, envelope and building services. Completing the options appraisal after key design decisions have been finalised may reduce its effectiveness and limit the opportunity for the findings to influence the final design. However, the timing requirement can still be met, where the assessor agrees that there is a justification for the appraisal continuing into early RIBA Stage 3 (or equivalent), and clear evidence to demonstrate that:

The key options remained under consideration during the appraisal.
The findings were capable of influencing the final design solution.
The intended outcomes of the elemental LCC process have not been compromised.

In all cases, the outline elemental LCC plan and identification of relevant project options must be completed by the end of Concept Design

Emissions from products – earlier versions of AgBB standard - KBCN0655

Guidance Note GN22 lists the standard AgBB (2015) as a recognised scheme for emissions from building products for pre-December 2015 launched BREEAM schemes. Previous versions of the AgBB scheme are not listed as recognised schemes because earlier versions of AgBB did not include any requirement for the testing of Formaldehyde. If an earlier version AgBB has been used, further evidence will be required to provide additional information on the required Formaldehyde testing.

10-Oct-2022 - Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Made applicable to UK and International NC V6.

Emissions from products – scope of assessment - KBCN0212

General This issue covers any product installed or applied inside the inner surface of the building’s infiltration, vapour or waterproof membrane. Where this membrane is not present, it applies to the inside of the building envelope’s interior-facing thermal insulation layer. Only products that are installed or applied in parts of the building where their emissions are likely to affect indoor air quality need to be assessed. Paints and coatings Any decorative paints and varnishes that occupants are exposed to should be assessed. This is likely to include paints and coatings applied to walls, ceilings, floors, doors, etc. Whole products A finish applied to a product in the factory is assessed as a whole product, and not separately as a paint or coating. For instance, a wood panel has a finish applied in the factory. The whole panel, including all the elements that make up that panel, would need to comply with the requirements set for wood panel products in this issue. The finished product as a whole must meet the performance requirements / emission limits set in the manual.

30-Oct-2025 - Applicable to HQM V6 and UKNCR V6.1
11-Oct-2022 - Title amended for clarity and consistency. Content merged with KBCN0871.
10-Oct-2022 - Wording simplified. Scheme applicability updated.
16-Jun-2017 - Title and general principle amended to extend the applicability of the KBCN to all finishes. Paints specified for specialist applications covered in KBCN0872.

Emissions from products – specialist paints and coatings - KBCN0872

Where a paint or coating falls within:

A category in Annex II of the EU Directive 2004/42/CE or,
A category in the relevant product emission table of the technical manual,

then the paint or coating must be assessed. Specialist paints and coatings are exempted from meeting the VOC content and emission limits where there are no alternative products available that can perform the function, and still meet the emission limits. This must be clearly evidenced.

30-Oct-2025 Applicable to HQM V6 and UKNCR V6.1
02-Oct-2025 Reference to 'VOC content' added and KBCN applied to UKNC V7 and INC V7 to clarify CN2.1 
27-Oct-2022 Wording clarified. New compliance principle added from UKNC V6.
10-Oct-2022 Title amended for clarity. Scheme applicability updated.
13-Mar-2020 KBCN amended to clarify exceptions and applicability.
16-Jun-2017 Content merged with KBCN0212.

Erratum – Monitoring utility consumption – Meeting the set targets - KBCN1899

The target and actual total energy and water consumption figures must be entered into the platform. However, meeting the targets is not required for compliance. The relevant criteria will be clarified in the next reissue.

Erratum – Part new-build, part refurbishment projects - KBCN1903

This supersedes the guidance in:

BREEAM Refurbishment Commercial V7.0
BREEAM International New Construction V 7.0
BREEAM UK New Construction V 7.0

Where the new-build area is < 50% of the project gross internal area:

BREEAM Refurbishment can be used.
The scope of the assessment for the new-build element must align with the Parts selected for assessment, which must include Part 1.

Where the new-build area is ≥ 50% of the project gross internal area:

A single BREEAM Refurbishment assessment is not appropriate.
RFO-NC Bespoke assessments are no longer available.

The options are:

Separate BREEAM Refurbishment and BREEAM New Construction assessments Two separate certificates will be issued to indicate the performance of the new-build and refurbishment areas respectively.
BREEAM New Construction A single New Construction assessment can be used for the whole development, regardless of the percentage of new-build area. Both the new-build and refurbished areas must be assessed against the more challenging New Construction criteria.

Definition Project gross internal area – The combined gross internal area of the refurbishment and the new build

Evidence requirements – responsible sourcing of materials at post-construction - KBCN1599

Whilst the UK BREEAM manuals are less prescriptive in the evidential requirements to allow flexibility, to ensure consistency across the schemes, it is expected that robust evidence should be provided to verify the source of any certified materials and how the assessor has confirmed the products and manufacturers used. Evidence supplied at post construction stage must reflect the completed building and confirm the responsibly sourced materials that have been procured and installed on the project. Supporting documentation is required to validate letters of confirmation or schedules of materials. Evidence provided could include proof of purchase, for example, invoices, delivery tickets, purchase orders or correspondence from suppliers. This may be an example for each material sourced, rather than every delivery ticket for instance. Alternatively, evidence of the use of the responsibly sourced materials may include as-built drawings, O&M documentation or site photographs.

30-Oct-2025 - Applicable to HQM V6 and UKNCR V6.1

GN06 Indoor air quality plans - KBCN0618

Latest version: v2.3, July 2026 Guidance Note 6 (GN06) provides guidance to assessors and project teams regarding the content and rigour of an Indoor Air Quality Plan (IAQP) as required by the indoor air quality criteria in BREEAM New Construction and BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out. It should not be interpreted as BREEAM criteria. It is intended to provide assessors and project teams with further, flexible information and guidance regarding the rigour, content, and tasks of an IAQP. Download Guidance Note 6 View all Guidance Notes on BREEAM Projects (licensed assessors only)

15-Jul-2026 - Updated version released (v2.3)

GN18 BREEAM Recognised Responsible Sourcing Certification Schemes and BREEAM Scheme Applicability - KBCN0723

Latest version: v3.7, May 2023 BREEAM awards credits for responsibly sourcing construction products (typically under the Mat 03 issue) to encourage responsible product specification and procurement in construction. To achieve these credits, applicable specified products (as listed in the relevant technical manual) must be covered by an Environmental Management System (EMS) or a responsible sourcing certification scheme (RSCS) recognised by BREEAM. Guidance Note 18 (GN18) lists the responsible sourcing certifications schemes recognised by BREEAM along with the relevant summary scores to be used in BREEAM assessments. Download Guidance Note 18 Download Guidance Note 18 v2.0 (licensed assessors only - optional for projects registered prior to release of v3.0 in September 2016) View all Guidance Notes on BREEAM Projects (licensed assessors only)

21-Jul-2026 - Applicable to NC V6, NC V7, RFO V7

GN20 Assessing mixed-use and multiple buildings – BREEAM V7 - KBCN0717

Latest version: v1.1, July 2026 Guidance Note 20 (GN20) provides information to help BREEAM Assessors formulate an assessment strategy for mixed-use developments, assets that include different levels of fit out, and for multiple buildings or units on the same site using BREEAM V7. This guidance note only applies to BREEAM V7. There is a separate guidance note for earlier versions of BREEAM NC and RFO (see Guidance Note 10). Download Guidance Note 20 View all Guidance Notes on BREEAM Projects (licensed assessors only)

15-Jul-2026 - Updated version released (v1.1)

GN22 Recognised schemes for emissions from construction products - KBCN0719

Latest version: v3.2, July 2026 Within the Health and Wellbeing category of several BREEAM schemes, credits are awarded for specifying materials that minimise emissions from building products of formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The criteria involve meeting emission level performance requirements in accordance with compliant performance and testing standards. Guidance Note 22 (GN22) lists schemes that show equivalent or better performance than the current BREEAM and HQM criteria and therefore can be used to demonstrate compliance with the criteria. This document should be read in conjunction with the relevant assessment issue guidance provided in the appropriate BREEAM or HQM technical manual. The guidance note contains two tables:

Table 1 is for use with BREEAM schemes that were first released before December 2015.
Table 2 is for use with BREEAM (and HQM) schemes that were first released from December 2015 onwards (post-November 2015).

Download Guidance Note 22 View all Guidance Notes on BREEAM Projects (licensed assessors only) Applying for inclusion in GN22 The list of approved schemes is based on those which have made a successful application to BREEAM. As such, there may be other operational schemes that could potentially be recognised. To be considered for inclusion, the scheme operator must complete an application form, providing full details of the scheme, and submit this to BRE Global for technical approval. A flat rate charge is payable to cover the costs of administering and reviewing the application. GN22 will be updated following the approval of any schemes via this process. The application form (BF1648) provides full details of the application process, and licensed BREEAM assessors can request a copy by submitting a technical query using the webform. Other parties may request a copy by contacting: breeam@bregroup.com

15-Jul-2026 - Release of GN22 3.2
25-Mar-2026 - Release of GN22 3.1
30-Oct-2025 - Applicable to HQM V6 and UKNCR V6.1
25-Sep-2025 - Updated to provide details of the approval process and title updated.
30-Jan-2025 - Release of GN22 3.0
30-Sep-2024 - Release of GN22 2.9
01-Feb-2024 - Release of GN22 2.8
31-Jan-2023 - Release of GN22 2.7
10-Oct-2022 - This KBCN merged with KBCN0646. Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Made applicable to UK and International NC V6.
25-Jan-2019 - Link to Guidance Note updated
12-Mar-2018 - Link to Guidance Note updated

GN24 Demonstrating compliance with responsible sourcing requirements in BREEAM - KBCN0721

Latest version: v1.2, July 2026 Guidance Note 24 (GN24) provides additional guidance to assessors and specifiers on demonstrating compliance with the 'Measuring responsible sourcing' criteria in BREEAM (typically in Mat 03). It should be read in conjunction with the Technical Manual for the relevant assessment scheme. It covers:

How to deal with constituent products/materials including those with certification that is different from the overall product.
The precision required in estimating quantities:
- For the cut-off volume
- Of products/materials in the building (Route 2 only)
- Of different material categories in products/materials.
An example Route 2 calculation.
‘Broken chain’ situations.
How to treat building services.

Download Guidance Note 24 View all Guidance Notes on BREEAM Projects (licensed assessors only)

15-Jul-2026 - Updated version released (v1.2)

GN50 Natural light calculation methodology for Hea 01 in BREEAM V7 - KBCN1683

Latest version: v1.0, July 2026 Guidance Note 50 (GN50) describes the calculation methodologies that underpin the natural light issue (Hea 01) within BREEAM V7. Guidance is provided for methodologies relating to the daylight criteria and the evaluation of glare from daylight criteria. All the calculation methods outlined in the technical manual for these criteria are described in this guidance note. Download Guidance Note 50 View all Guidance Notes on BREEAM Projects (licensed assessors only)

15-Jul-2026 - Updated version released (v1.0)

GN51 Guidance on LCA and embodied carbon calculations for Mat 01 in BREEAM V7 - KBCN1684

Latest version: v1.0, July 2026 Guidance Note 51 (GN51) provides supporting information for the new Mat 01 criteria in BREEAM V7. Its development is driven by the introduction of new credit allocation criteria for Mat 01. While the core principles of measuring and reporting a building's environmental performance through life cycle assessment (LCA) and benchmarking were introduced in BREEAM UK New Construction 2018, significant revisions have been made to align the criteria across BREEAM schemes and with existing LCA frameworks and methodologies. This guidance note explains the primary methodology for Mat 01, including minimum requirements and the scope of the LCA. Download Guidance Note 51 View all Guidance Notes on BREEAM Projects (licensed assessors only)

15-Jul-2026 - Updated version released (v1.0)

GN54 Responsible construction management – BREEAM V7 - KBCN1752

Latest version: v1.0, July 2026 Guidance Note 54 (GN54) provides information on achieving the responsible construction management requirements in Man 03 in BREEAM V7. It has two parts:

Part 1 lists the requirements that must be met to achieve credits for responsible construction management in BREEAM V7.
Part 2 provides a list of the schemes or tools that have been evaluated by BREEAM and can contribute to the achievement of one or more credits for responsible construction management.

This guidance note only applies to BREEAM V7. There is a separate guidance note for earlier versions of BREEAM UK NC and UKNCR (see Guidance Note 33). Download Guidance Note 54 View all Guidance Notes on BREEAM Projects (licensed assessors only)

15-Jul-2026 - Updated version released (v1.0)

Indoor air quality plan – scope - KBCN0294

Where possible, the indoor air quality plan must cover all items in the criteria. This means the plan must be completed for:

Situations where BREEAM has been engaged later in the project (see KBCN1544).
Shell only / shell and core projects - the plan must be completed for the scope of works being assessed.
Refurbishment projects with a limited scope of works.

Within these requirements, there is flexibility for the design team to use their professional judgement to determine what is appropriate to meet the criteria. Any exclusions must be clearly evidenced and justified. As the basis for effective asset management, the indoor air quality plan must be written in a consistent and comprehensive manner. The report must address relevant aspects as fully as possible within the scope of the development.

11-Oct-2022 Title updated for clarity. Wording clarified. Content merged with KBCN0556. Reference to KBCN1544 added. Scheme applicability updated.

Leak detection – compliance principle – alternative technologies - KBCN1566

Where it can be demonstrated that alternative leak detection technologies can meet or exceed the capabilities of systems set out in the BREEAM guidance, subject to approval, these can also be considered compliant. It is the role of the Assessor and the project team to provide evidence and justification in a compliance principle query (see KBCN1555). The following alternative solutions are currently recognised:

Smart leak detection systems that are based on 'self-learning' (machine learning) to determine normal use patterns are an acceptable alternative to systems that require manual pre-sets or manual programming.

06-Jul-2026 - Title updated for consistency. Scheme applicability updated. Principle also applied to refrigerant leak detection.

Leak detection – using a BMS - KBCN0439

A BMS can be used for leak detection if it can be shown that its integrated or add-on features meet all the requirements for a leak detection system.

07-Feb-2022 - Applicability to BIU V6C confirmed.
06-Jul-2026 - Scheme applicability updated, and applied also to refrigerant leak detection across all relevant schemes.

Life Cycle Assessment – Similar buildings approach (GN20 – Section 4) - KBCN1834

Where multiple buildings are included within the scope of a single BREEAM assessment following the Similar Buildings approach, in accordance with Section 4 of GN20, unless identical, each building must be assessed and reported separately within the LCA. Where all buildings are demonstrably identical in design and specification (and differ only in scale), a representative LCA approach may be used (see KBCN1890). Shared elements (e.g. substructure, external works, or building services serving multiple buildings) may be apportioned between buildings using a reasonable and transparent method (e.g. by gross internal area or other appropriate project-specific metric), in line with recognised industry approaches. For the purposes of BREEAM benchmarking under Mat 01: • The results submitted to the platform must represent a single building, not a combined site-wide result. • Where multiple buildings are included within an assessment, the worst-performing building (in kgCO₂e/m²) must be used for benchmarking in line with the Similar Buildings methodology (section 4.2 of GN20). Full evidence must be provided to demonstrate: • That all buildings within scope of the assessment have been included, with individual LCAs completed for each building, and • How results have been separated and, where relevant, how shared elements have been allocated.

Rationale: In line with Section 4.2 of GN20, BREEAM issues must be assessed for each individual building, with credits awarded based on the worst‑performing building for each assessment issue. The Similar Buildings approach therefore remains an individual‑building assessment methodology and does not constitute a site‑wide assessment, even where multiple buildings are included.

09.07.2026 Reference to KBCN1890 added

Life Cycle Assessment – Similar buildings with identical design (GN20 Section 4) – Representative LCA approach - KBCN1890

Where multiple buildings are substantially identical in design, construction and specification, and any differences are limited to scale, a representative LCA approach may be used instead of completing a full LCA for every building. Where buildings are not substantially identical, see KBCN1834. For the purposes of BREEAM benchmarking under Mat01:

A representative LCA and a single options appraisal may be applied across all buildings, provided that all specifications (including scoped elements) are consistent and carbon reduction measures are specification-driven rather than scale-dependent.
Robust justification and supporting evidence must be provided to confirm representativeness. The representative model should normally be the largest, most carbon-intensive, or otherwise demonstrably representative building within the development.
Results must be expressed in normalised form (e.g. kgCO₂e/m²) and demonstrated to be applicable across all units, with any variation in outcomes shown to be not materially significant (e.g. within ±10%).
Shared elements (e.g. substructure, external works, or building services serving multiple buildings) may be apportioned between buildings using a reasonable and transparent method (e.g. by gross internal area or other appropriate project-specific metric), in line with recognised industry approaches.

Demonstrating representativeness does not require full LCAs for additional units; proportionate methods such as parametric scaling of quantities or elemental intensity comparisons may be used to evidence that variation in normalised results is not materially significant. Where there is uncertainty regarding representativeness, a secondary check model for an additional unit is recommended to verify consistency of results.

Rationale: The representative LCA approach provides a proportionate means of assessing developments containing multiple highly similar buildings while maintaining confidence that reported results are representative of individual building performance. It is intended as a limited exception to the standard requirement for building-specific assessment.

Outside space – Disturbance from sources of noise - KBCN1888

The requirements set out in the Definitions must be met in as far as is practicable, considering any specific site constraints. For some developments, particularly industrial or large retail sites, it may not always be possible to avoid areas that will have disturbance from sources of noise. In such cases, the project team must provide justification, with reference to a marked-up site plan, to demonstrate that the outdoor space is situated the most appropriate available area and meets the requirements as far as possible. Where the use of the outdoor space is compromised by unavoidable disturbance from sources of noise, the project team must seek to mitigate this where it is practical to do so, for instance through the introduction of screening or planting. It is the role of the assessor to review the approach taken and determine whether, accounting for any mitigation measures and residual disturbance, the outdoor space provides a practical and comfortable amenity that is suitable for its intended use.

Post-construction measurement – formaldehyde / VOC levels exceed limits - KBCN0258

If the measured formaldehyde / VOC concentrations were above the prescribed limits, the appropriate remedial action must be taken, as described in the IAQ Plan. The criterion requires confirmation of 'the measures that have or will be undertaken' however it does not specifically address re-testing. We would expect, however that the IAQ Plan should outline what remedial measures are appropriate depending upon the severity and type of the non-compliance with prescribed limits. Such measures may include re-testing as a matter of 'best practice'. Where levels are found to exceed these limits, the project team confirms the measures that have, or will be undertaken in accordance with the IAQ plan, to reduce the TVOC and formaldehyde levels to within the above limits.

10-Oct-2022 - Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Made applicable to UK and International NC V6.

Post-construction measurement – sampling methodology and KPIs - KBCN0380

When testing for VOCs post-completion and pre-occupancy, a representative sample of the building needs to be carried out. Each sample TVOC and formaldehyde measurement needs to achieve the threshold levels individually, either in the initial testing or after remedial measures have been implemented. This ensures that all tested areas of the building are below the limits, and that areas of non-compliance are not ‘averaged out’. 'When providing KPI test results for air quality post-construction / pre-occupancy within scoring and reporting tool, where the limits are exceeded and remediation and re-testing are carried out, the figure should be an average for the whole building post-remediation, as this is the key figure that reflects the building at its certified state'. Where testing is not a requirement of the IAQ Plan and this is not carried out, the original testing figures should be entered and the assessment report should provide details of the remediation measures undertaken to reduce these to within the prescribed limits.

10-Oct-2022 Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Scheme applicability updated.
06-Dec-2017 Amended to account for situations where re-testing is not required by the IAQ Plan.

Quantifying change in ecological value – Americas Biodiversity Metric - KBCN1906

For projects based in the United States, Canada, or Northern Mexico, it is acceptable to use the Americas Biodiversity Metric as an alternative to the other metrics presented in the criteria.

Quantifying change in ecological value- Biodiversity metric rules - KBCN1894

Unless otherwise stated in the BREEAM technical manual, all rules of the methodology in the relevant user guide of the biodiversity metric must be followed in order for any credits to be awarded for the biodiversity net gain calculation. This includes rules such as trading rules, unit conversions, and competency requirements.

Responsible construction management – corporate registration - KBCN1084

Where credits are awarded for the assessment of the site against a compliant scheme, corporate registration, which assesses the contractor's overall operations and performance across multiple sites, is not in itself recognised. To award considerate construction credits, BREEAM requires the assessment of the specific assessed development, in line with the criteria

Submitting aftercare & post occupancy evaluation data - KBCN0589

Where credits have been awarded which require post-occupancy evaluation or an element of aftercare data collection (according to scheme requirements) from the building once operational and occupied, the data gathering must take place at the specified time and the findings reported to BRE. The timing of this evidence gathering depends on the criteria of the specific BREEAM scheme. However, for all schemes, once the evidence is due for submission, it should be sent on the assessor webform with the following subject; 'BREEAM Assessment Type - Building Data - BREEAM Assessment Reference' For example: 'BREEAM NC 2018 - Building Data - BREEAM-1234-5678'

29-Oct-2025 - Applicable to HQM One, HQM V6 and UKNCR V6.1
05 Nov 2024 - Wording clarified and link to the webform added
This replaces KBCN0695 for HQM.

Ventilation – Filtration – Non-residential assets - KBCN0797

Relevant specialist required The design and specification of air filtration for mechanical ventilation requires the input and review of a relevant ventilation designer or specialist. It is their responsibility to interpret the requirements of this KBCN to align with local conditions. Referenced standard The requirements for air filtration in mechanical ventilation systems follows EN 16798-3:2017 Section B4.2. This standard replaces EN 13779:2007. See KBCN1054. Supply air quality

For assessments using current standard EN 16798-3:2017 Section B4.2: The minimum supply air quality required is SUP2. SUP 2 applies unless the asset's function dictates even higher supply air quality. Please refer to a relevant specialist for further advice.
For assessments using legacy standard EN 13779:2007 Annex A3: The default minimum indoor air quality category required is IDA2. For international assessments where there is no relevant local guidance in the ASWL, the default non-domestic ventilation rates stated in the ASWL equate to an EN 13779 indoor air category of IDA2.

Outdoor air quality The filtering required to achieve SUP2 is affected by outdoor air quality. Outdoor air quality (ODA) in both EN 16798-3:2017 and EN 13779:2007 are defined as:

ODA 1: outdoor air that meets World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines or national air quality standards.
ODA 2 exceeds ODA 1 levels by factor of ≤1.5.
ODA 3 exceeds ODA 1 levels by factor > 1.5.

As ODA definitions are relative to national air quality standards, these will depend on local regulations and the location of the asset. Please refer to the relevant specialist on how to correctly classify ODA for your asset. Where multiple pollutants or outdoor air intake locations result in different ODA categories, the overall classification for the asset should be based on the highest (worst-case) ODA category applicable.

27-Feb-2026 Note added to clarify the approach where more than one ODA category is applicable.
18-Nov-2022 Title amended to differentiate between residential and non-residential filtration KBCNs.
06-Sep-2022 KBCN re-written and re-named to clarify BREEAM ventilation filtration requirements in relation to new ventilation standards. Scheme applicability updated.

Ventilation – Single room MVHRs - KBCN1042

Single room mechanical ventilation heat recovery units do not need to show that the air intake and exhaust are a suitable distance apart. However, the air intakes of these units must be located to minimise intake of other potential external pollutants.

11-Oct-2022 - Title amended for clarity and consistency. Wording simplified. Scheme applicability updated.

Version of ASL to submit to QA - KBCN1892

The version of the ASL that was current at the time of registration, or a more recent version, must be submitted. An older version must not be used. For a post-construction assessment, the registration date for the design stage of the assessment must be considered.

Version 2 - July 2026

Please indicate the version of the ASL that has been submitted to QA, either in the name of the document or in the assessment report. Please be aware that the upload dates (stated beneath each ASL file on BREEAM Projects) may differ from those above. Please ensure you refer to the above version date.

View out – eye level - KBCN0581

BREEAM defines an adequate view out as being at seated eye level (1.2 – 1.3m) within the relevant building areas. However, where occupants will not have the option to be seated, for example in some industrial operational areas where the work being undertaken requires occupants to remain standing, the height of the view out can be changed accordingly to suit the eye level of occupants. All other view out requirements have to be met and clear justification provided for changing the height/level of the view out. In some relevant building areas, occupants may not be sitting down to undertake tasks. Allowing the view out height requirements to be changed accordingly ensures building occupants gain maximum benefit from the view out.

Zoning and occupant control – access to lighting controls - KBCN00032

The relevant areas for the criteria apply only to areas where users are expected to have control. For instance, this means that areas intended for the general public, or a shop floor would not be expected to have lighting controls. The general principle which applies to user access to general environmental controls (heating, cooling, ventilation) may also apply to access to lighting controls. See KBCN0170. However, the the exact approach may differ between the two types of systems and assessor judgement must be used to determine compliance. In all cases zoning is required in all areas of the asset where specified in the assessment criteria. Please refer to the specific requirements of the applicable BREEAM standard to interpret this guidance appropriately.

14-Dec-2022 - KBCN applicability updated to include BIU. Wording updated. Link to KBCN0170 created.

Zoning and occupant control – control via BMS - KBCN0703

Occupant control via a BMS is not normally considered a compliant BREEAM solution. Any solution that requires the action of a third party (e.g. facilities manager) is not considered under the control of the occupant. Solutions where all relevant building occupants have control via a user-interface via BMS may be considered compliant where the assessor is satisfied that the aim of the criteria are met. User-control must be available directly to the occupant.

21-Jul-2026 - Applicability updated
01-Aug-2017 - KBCN applicability to Thermal comfort Issue removed.

Refurbishment and Fit Out /