Updated 28 July 2026
Building performance evaluation (BPE) is a way to assess how buildings perform in practice. It can help demonstrate whether the expected building performance (e.g. the designed energy efficiency, comfort and usability) has been delivered. BPE also plays an important role in informing continual improvement; for helping homebuilders improve performance, quality and householder satisfaction across their portfolio.
BPE is particularly important in the context of the increasing energy security and sustainable construction challenges. Regulatory, policy and customer expectations are changing. Some forms of BPE are already required under legislation (such as fabric air permeability testing and ventilation system flow rate measurements), and in the government’s FHS Consultation Response (Mar 2026) it committed to gathering further evidence on the ‘Energy Performance Gap’. At the same time, householders will increasingly have smart home monitors and controls which will provide them with feedback on the performance of their home.
About the guide
This ‘where to start’ guide is intended to introduce homebuilders, designers, and others involved in the development of new homes, to building performance evaluation (BPE).
The guide introduces the main BPE techniques and why, and when, you may choose to undertake them. It is intended for those with limited preexisting knowledge of the subject and will provide an “easy way in” to engaging with the subject. The guide covers the basics and signposts to more detailed sources of information.