NHBC fears builders don't know Part L

The National House-Building Council is worried that it could face a 'terrible problem' with claims if builders wrongly believe that by simply putting more insulation into cavity walls they will automatically meet the higher standards of new building regulations which come into force this week.

An NHBC spokeswoman said: 'We have had a lot of claims as a result of insulation problems in the past. We don't want more housing defects.'

Part L of the building regulations calls for higher standards of energy efficiency.

Although the NHBC has held seminars throughout England and Wales in recent months there is a fear that the message has not reached the whole of the industry.

'Our building surveyors have had enquiries but nothing like the number we had expected. We thought we would be swamped.' She fears builders may still not be aware of the changes.

See pages 14-17 for the new building regs