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What do the new BREEAM V7 changes mean for you?

This month sees the largest change in BREEAM criteria since 2011 and its impact across the industry will likely be huge.

BREEAM V7 not only updates the methodology behind individual credits but also marks a significant shift in how sustainability is assessed. Whereas previous versions focused largely on design intent, V7 places greater emphasis on measured or predicted performance outcomes. This aligns with evolving regulatory and compliance practices, and leverages advancements in digital assessment tools and availability of data. The further ESG alignment in V7 highlights BREEAM’s growing role not just as a design framework, but as a robust investment tool that offers assurance to regulators, occupiers, and investors.

We’ve pulled together the essential information you’ll need to know to help navigate this new landscape.

Key changes by theme

Energy

Shifts energy assessment towards performance metrics, efficient systems and technology and flexible energy demand strategies.

Carbon and materials

Greater focus on promoting Whole Life Carbon and Circular Economy principles.

Water

Simplifies water consumption calculations, introduces benchmarks based on actual use and predictions.

Ecology

Reduce the use of high embodied carbon materials and consider natural or renewable materials.

Pollution

Introduces minimum requirements for refrigerants and encouraging fossil-fuel free developments.

Management

Alignment to the EU Taxonomy and promoting Zero Transition Plans.

How can Hoare Lea help?

We have been delivering BREEAM Excellent and Outstanding projects since 1990 (>200 certified assessments delivered to date).

We have 14 licenced BREEAM assessors, supported by a team of over 100 sustainability professionals, with specialist skills in sustainability and environmental design complimented by a proven track record of delivering BREEAM certification across a multitude of projects.

We work hand in hand with our MEP, Acoustics, Air Quality, Lighting Security, VT and Whole Life Carbon teams to ensure that our approach, no matter the discipline, will help our clients achieve BREEAM excellence.

To find out more about how we can help you navigate BREEAM V7, contact Greg Jones, Director, Sustainability.