BREEAM Drying space

[edit] Aim and benefits

The aim of this credit is to allow residents a space to dry clothes which is not energy intensive (tumble drying), and does not cause damp in the home.

This issue offers the following potential benefits to end users and clients:

• Reduced energy consumption / energy bills;
• In multi-residential accomodation, allows for space saving / lifestyle options in dwellings through centralised facilities.

[edit] When to consider

During RIBA Stage 2, establish whether drying space in individual residences is more appropriate, or a communal drying area.

If a communal drying area is suggested, allow sufficient space in the concept design.

Drying spaces in residences can be considered relatively late on in the process, around RIBA Stage 3 to 4, as there are very space efficient methods of achieving the credit, so premium space is not necessarily required.

[edit] Step by step guidance

Awaiting content

[edit] Questions to ask while seeking compliance

Awaiting content

[edit] Tools and resources

Ideas for alternative styles of drying rack to typical solution:

[edit] Tips and best practice

Often clients do not particularly want to include drying space. This is because the standard solution (a pull out rack over a bath) isn't the most attractive of options. It may be that you need to remind the client of what the purpose of this credit is, and perhaps suggest alternative drying rack options which still meet the aims of the credit but meet the aesthetic of the property better.

[edit] Typical evidence

[edit] Design Stage

[edit] Individual drying space:

• Architectural drawing(s) showing location of drying space
• Architectural specification detailing manufacturer of drying rack
• Manufacturer's data stating length of drying line
• [If internal] M&E specification stating required heating and ventilation for room with drying rack in
• [If external] details of posts/footings/fixings

[edit] Communal drying space:

• Architectural drawing(s) showing location of drying space
• Architectural specification detailing manufacturer of drying rack
• Manufacturer's data stating length of drying line
• [If internal] Architectural (or M&E) specification detailing access controls
• [If internal] M&E specification stating required heating and ventilation for room with drying rack in
• [If external] Details of how external space is accessible only to residents (marked up drawing, access statement)
• [If external] details of posts/footings/fixings

[edit] Post Construction Stage

• As per design stage, plus
• Site Inspection Report with photographs confirming
  • Location of drying space
  • Sufficient length
  • Access controls
  • Permanent fixing
  • Heating and ventilation provision

[edit] Applicable Schemes

The guidelines collated in this ISD aim to support sustainable best practice in the topic described. This issue may apply in multiple BREEAM schemes covering different stages in the life of a building, different building types and different year versions. Some content may be generic but scheme nuances should also be taken into account. Refer to the comments below and related articles to this one to understand these nuances. See this document for further guidelines.

• Written to cover UK New Construction 2014

BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

--Tom Blois-Brooke 16:45, 01 Jul 2019 (BST)

--Multiple Author Article 21:59, 21 Apr 2018 (BST)