Overheating in new homes: a review of the evidence

As new homes are built with more thermal insulation and to improved standards of airtightness, concerns are emerging of an increased risk of overheating.

This report reviews existing evidence for overheating in new homes, its effect on occupant health and what can be done to reduce overheating risk.

The report stresses the need to establish a clear accepted definition of overheating but explains that the current research base is not yet sufficient to support a robust risk model. In the meantime, and to reflect existing observation and understanding, practical messages from this report, provided the basis for the NHBC Foundation’s introductory guide on overheating (NF44 Understanding overheating – where to start).