Building user's guide
In addition to a building owner's manual and building log book, it may also be prudent to prepare a non-technical 'building user's guide' (BUG) with information for users about:
- The principles behind the design of the building and how these affect its operation.
- The building's standard of performance.
- Energy efficiency measures.
- Water-saving measures.
- Means of operating heating, lighting and cooling systems, and the consequences of incorrect operation.
- Access, security and safety systems.
- Methods for reporting problems.
- Car parking and cycling provision, local public transport, car sharing schemes, etc.
- Waste management.
- Training.
It may also include guidance for facilities managers and for maintenance and other contractors.
The building user's guide should be written as if the user knows nothing about the systems being described. The document needs to be kept up to date to reflect changes in the building and should be made easily accessible so that users can refer to it easily, and new users can learn about the building. Ideally it should be made accessible online.
The building user's guide is usually prepared by the designers, but its preparation may be considered an 'additional service' by consultants unless specifically required by their appointment agreement.
For more information, see How to write a building user guide.
NB The Inclusive Design Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work published by the RIBA in 2023, gives an alternative definition: ‘The Building User Guide is the inclusive design element of the Building Manual and it should include accessibility arrangements such as inclusive travel options by public transport, vehicular drop off, accessible parking provision, adapted cycle parking, entry systems for all potential users, step free routes and circulation, adapted desk and chair arrangements, desk and meeting booking systems, availability and type of assisted listening systems, lifts, wayfinding and signage systems, refreshments and dietary needs, specific amenities (such as toilet types and locations, faith rooms, quiet rooms and first aid) evacuation procedures and support, provision for assistance dogs, safeguarding and safety arrangements for disabled people.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
Comments