Is PAS 24 Certification Mandatory for All New Residential Buildings?

Introduction

When it comes to the security and safety of homes, one of the most important factors to consider is the quality and performance of the doors. In the UK, PAS 24 certification has become a widely recognized standard for door security. But is this certification mandatory for all new residential buildings? In this article, we'll explore the requirements surrounding PAS 24 and shed light on when it is necessary.

What is PAS 24?

PAS 24 is a British standard that sets out the minimum requirements for the enhanced security performance of external doorsets and windows. It is designed to protect against various types of attack, including manual intervention, mechanical loading, and manipulation. Doors and windows that meet the PAS 24 standard demonstrate enhanced resistance to forced entry attempts.

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To learn more about PAS 24 and its significance for doors, check out our blog post: What is PAS 24 for Doors?

Is PAS 24 Certification Mandatory?

The short answer is no, PAS 24 certification is not mandatory for all new residential buildings in the UK. However, there are certain circumstances where it may be required:

• Building Regulations: While PAS 24 is not explicitly mentioned in the Building Regulations, it is often used as a means of demonstrating compliance with the security requirements outlined in Approved Document Q (ADQ). ADQ applies to new dwellings and requires that doors and windows provide reasonable resistance to physical attack by a casual or opportunist burglar.
• Planning Requirements: In some cases, local planning authorities may stipulate that PAS 24 certification is necessary for new developments. This is more likely to be the case in areas with higher crime rates or where there are specific security concerns.
• Client Specifications: Private clients, housing associations, or developers may choose to specify PAS 24 certification for their projects, even if it is not a legal requirement. This can be driven by a desire to provide enhanced security for occupants or to meet certain industry standards.

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Exceptions to PAS 24 Certification

It's important to note that there are some exceptions to the PAS 24 certification requirement, even when it is specified:

• Listed Buildings: If a building is listed or located in a conservation area, there may be restrictions on the types of doors and windows that can be installed. In these cases, it may not be possible to achieve PAS 24 certification without compromising the historical integrity of the building.
• Bespoke Designs: Unique or custom-designed doorsets and windows may not be able to meet the PAS 24 standard without significant modification. In these situations, alternative security measures may need to be considered.

For a more detailed look at the exceptions to PAS 24 certification, read our blog post: Exceptions to PAS 24 Certification Requirement

The Benefits of PAS 24 Certification

While PAS 24 certification may not be mandatory in all cases, there are several compelling reasons to consider it for your new residential building project:

• Enhanced Security: PAS 24 certified doors and windows have been rigorously tested to withstand various types of attack, providing a higher level of protection against forced entry.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home is equipped with doors and windows that meet a recognized security standard can provide valuable peace of mind for occupants.
• Insurance Benefits: Some insurance providers may offer reduced premiums for homes with PAS 24 certified doors and windows, as they recognize the reduced risk of burglary.
• Resale Value: Having PAS 24 certified doors and windows can be a selling point when it comes to resale, as potential buyers may appreciate the added security features.

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To learn more about PAS 24 and its benefits, read our Introduction to PAS 24 blog post.

Consequences of Not Meeting PAS 24 Standards

If PAS 24 certification is specified for a new residential building and the installed doors and windows do not meet this standard, there can be consequences:

• Building Control Issues: If PAS 24 is being used to demonstrate compliance with ADQ, failure to meet the standard could result in Building Control rejecting the work. This may require costly remedial action to rectify the issue.
• Legal Disputes: In situations where PAS 24 is a contractual requirement, failure to meet the standard could lead to legal disputes between the involved parties. This can be time-consuming, expensive, and damaging to professional reputations.
• Compromised Security: Ultimately, if the doors and windows do not meet the PAS 24 standard, the security of the building and its occupants may be compromised. This can leave the property more vulnerable to forced entry attempts.

For more information on the consequences of not meeting PAS 24 standards, check out our blog post: Consequences of Not Meeting PAS 24 Standards in New Builds

Conclusion

In summary, while PAS 24 certification is not mandatory for all new residential buildings in the UK, it is often specified as a means of demonstrating compliance with security requirements or meeting client expectations. By understanding the circumstances where PAS 24 may be necessary and the benefits it provides, you can make an informed decision about whether to pursue certification for your project.

At Internal Doors, we are proud to offer a range of high-quality, PAS 24 certified internal doors, supplied by Deanta. Our team of experts is always on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring that you find the perfect doors to meet your security and aesthetic requirements. Contact us today contact us on 01455 566 566 or email us at [email protected] to discuss your project and learn more about how we can help you achieve PAS 24 compliance.