What is Part Q?

Part Q is the new requirement which came into effect in England in October 2015.

The Part Q document refers specifically to Schedule 1 of the Building Regulations, which states:

“Reasonable provision must be made to resist unauthorised access to:

• Any dwelling; and
• Any part of a building from which access can be gained to a flat within the building”

Part Q applies to new build homes (including new homes created by a change of use such as a barn conversion) however it does not apply to replacement windows and doors.

Joinerysoft and Part Q

Joinerysoft are currently trying to facilitate a cost effective solution between timber merchants, tooling and hardware companies and manufacturers to address the Part Q regulation. As soon as we have more information we will update this website about Part Q and the solution we are preparing for our customers.

For additional information about Part Q you can also view the entire Part Q document on the government planning portal website here.

Part Q in Wales

At this current time the Welsh Government are reviewing the introduction of Part Q into their own building regulations. They have created a draft which includes the same guidance on Part Q that is effective in England, however there is new guidance for lighting.

To view the draft of the Welsh document click here.

Part Q in Scotland

For some time there has already been a Scottish Building Regulation in place regarding security which is covered by Standard 4.13.

Part Q in Northern Ireland

At this time there are currently no specific building regulations regarding security in Northern Ireland.