Overheating Assessments for Residential and Commercial Buildings
š§ Stay Comfortable, Compliant, and Ahead of Regulations
As the UKās climate warms and buildings become more airtight, the risk of internal overheating is rapidly increasing. If youāre developing or designing new residential or commercial spaces, itās essential to carry out a professional Overheating Assessment to ensure comfort, energy efficiency, and compliance with Part O of the Building Regulations.
At Assessment Hive, we provide reliable, fast, and fully compliant Overheating Assessments across the UK. Whether you’re an architect, developer, or homeowner, our assessments give you the insight and peace of mind you need to deliver quality, future-proof buildings.
ā What Is an Overheating Assessment?
An Overheating Assessment is a building analysis that determines whether your proposed design will cause internal temperatures to rise to uncomfortable or unsafe levels during warmer weather. This is especially important in modern buildings that are highly insulated and airtight.
Our assessments use dynamic thermal modelling software to simulate the buildingās performance during summer months. We assess factors like glazing, solar gain, ventilation, shading, and occupancy to determine whether the space will remain comfortable or if mitigation is needed.
These assessments are particularly important for developments with:
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South-facing glazing
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High window-to-wall ratios
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Limited cross-ventilation
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Urban heat island exposure
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Highly insulated or airtight designs
šļø Is an Overheating Assessment Required?
Yes ā if you are building a new residential development in England, you must comply with Part O of the Building Regulations, which came into effect in June 2022. This regulation is designed to reduce the risk of overheating in new homes and requires an assessment of both passive design features and ventilation strategies.
You will need an Overheating Assessment if:
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You are submitting a planning application for a new residential development
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Your development includes flats or rooms with restricted ventilation
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Your building is in an urban location or built-up area
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You want to reduce the reliance on mechanical cooling systems
Part O assessments apply primarily to residential dwellings, but best practice suggests carrying out similar assessments on commercial or mixed-use developmentsāespecially those with high occupancy or solar gain.
For projects that also require energy compliance, you may want to explore our SAP Calculations and SBEM Calculations services.
š¦ Whatās Included in Our Overheating Assessments?
At Assessment Hive, we deliver comprehensive overheating reports that meet and exceed regulatory requirements. Our service includes:
Thermal Comfort Modelling
Using advanced dynamic simulation software such as IES VE or Design Builder, we simulate internal temperatures across multiple zones and time periods.
Part O Compliance Checks
We ensure your design meets Building Regulations Approved Document O, focusing on limiting solar gains and ensuring effective means of removing excess heat.
Glazing & Shading Analysis
We assess the impact of glazing orientation, shading devices, overhangs, and solar control measures.
Natural & Mechanical Ventilation Review
We evaluate your ventilation strategy to ensure internal spaces can expel heat effectively, without relying solely on air conditioning.
Practical Design Recommendations
If your current design doesnāt comply, we provide straightforward, cost-effective suggestions to help bring your project back on track.
Fast Turnaround Times
We understand the pressures of planning and development. Thatās why we offer quick turnaround without sacrificing quality.
ā Why Choose Assessment Hive?
Weāre a trusted partner for architects, developers, and homeowners across the UK. Hereās what sets us apart:
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š·āāļø Expertise ā Our team of qualified energy and sustainability assessors are well-versed in Part O and thermal comfort strategies.
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ā” Speed ā We pride ourselves on delivering assessments quickly to help you meet tight planning deadlines.
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š§¾ Clarity ā We provide clear, user-friendly reports that make it easy to understand compliance outcomes.
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š” Full-Service Support ā Need more than just an Overheating Assessment? We also offer EPCs, SAP Calculations and Air Tightness TestingĀ to support your entire project.
š§ Our Overheating Assessment Process
Getting started is easy. Hereās how it works:
Step 1: Share Your Plans
Send us your architectural drawings, floorplans, and key information such as window specifications and orientation.
Step 2: We Run the Assessment
We input your data into our thermal modelling software and simulate building performance during warm periods.
Step 3: Receive Your Report
Get a comprehensive report detailing results, compliance status, and design advice if needed.
š¬ Common Questions
How long does an Overheating Assessment take?
Most assessments are completed within 3ā5 working days, depending on project size and complexity.
What information do you need from me?
We typically need floor plans, elevations, window and glazing specs, and site orientation. Weāll guide you through it step by step.
Can you help if the design fails the assessment?
Absolutely. We donāt just tell you thereās a problem ā we help you solve it with smart, practical design modifications.
š Request Your Overheating Assessment Today
Donāt leave your buildingās thermal comfort to chance. Avoid costly design changes and planning delays by getting your Overheating Assessment completed early in the design process.
ā Quick turnaround
ā Local qualified assessors
ā Clear, actionable reports
ā Fixed, affordable pricing
š Call us on 020 7183 3240
š§ Email us atĀ [email protected]
šĀ Request Instant Quote āĀ Click Here