Regulation 7 of the Building Regulations 2010 is concerned with materials and workmanship. The Approved Document to this regulation describes how Regulation 7 will be met where products, components, fittings and materials are of a suitable nature and quality in relation to their intended use and are, used so as to perform adequately the functions for which they are intended.
There are a number of ways in which the suitability of a window, door set or stair, for example, may be assessed;
Standards
The product conforms to the relevant provisions of an appropriate British Standard or European Standard. The European Standards will have specifically identified clauses which relate to "harmonised" requirements relevant to the Building Regulations and only these apply to regulation 7.
Other national and international technical specifications
The product conforms with the national technical specifications of other European Countries, as long as such specifications provide at least an equivalent level of performance to the relevant British Standard.
Technical Approvals
The product is covered by a national or European certificate issued by a European Technical Approvals issuing body, such as those issued by the British Board of Agriment (BBA).
CE Marking
If used appropriately and in satisfactory conditions, a product bearing CE marking shall be presumed by the building control body to satisfy the essential requirements of the Construction Products Directive.
Independent Certification Schemes
Product certification schemes certify compliance with the requirements of a recognised document which is appropriate to the purpose for which the product is to be used.
Tests and Calculations
It can be shown by tests, by calculation or by other means that the product will be capable of performing the function for which it is intended.
Past Experience
The product, component, fitting or material can be shown by experience, such as in a building in use, to be capable of performing the function for which it is intended.
Sampling
Local authorities have the power to take samples of products to be used in building work. Some properties of a material need to be considered specifically. You can find out more about this topic at this year's Members' Day on the 19th May.