With BRE Global’s BREEAM New Construction Version 7 placing greater emphasis on verified building performance, thermographic surveys are becoming an increasingly valuable tool in post-construction validation.
While thermography is not new, Version 7’s stronger focus on measurable outcomes means surveys must now be more robust, well-timed and clearly evidenced.
Here are practical hints and tips to ensure your thermographic surveys add real value under V7:
1. Plan for Performance, Not Just Compliance
Under V7, the narrative has shifted toward operational outcomes. Schedule thermographic surveys at a stage where the building is:
- Fully enclosed
- HVAC systems operational (where relevant)
- Representative of normal occupancy conditions (where possible)
Avoid treating thermography as a last-minute tick-box exercise — it should verify real-world performance.
2. Get the Temperature Differential Right
For meaningful results, aim for:
- Minimum 10°C temperature difference between inside and outside (15°C preferred)
- Stable conditions for several hours prior to surveying
Without sufficient ΔT, thermal bridges and insulation defects may not be reliably detected.
3. Follow Recognised Survey Standards
Ensure surveys are undertaken by appropriately qualified thermographers (e.g. ISO 18436-7 certified) and conducted in line with recognised guidance such as:
- BS EN 13187 (qualitative detection of thermal irregularities)
- Relevant building envelope testing protocols
Clear methodology strengthens BREEAM evidence submissions.
4. Focus on High-Risk Areas
Pay particular attention to:
- Steel-to-concrete junctions
- Balcony penetrations
- Service penetrations
- Curtain wall interfaces
- Roof-to-wall junctions
These are common thermal bridging points that can impact energy credits and long-term operational performance.
6. Provide Clear, Assessor-Ready Reporting
BREEAM assessors increasingly expect:
- Calibrated imagery with temperature scales
- Context photos alongside thermograms
- Clear fault identification and severity commentary
- Recommendations for remedial action
- Confirmation of re-inspection (where required)
Well-structured reports reduce assessor queries and improve certification timelines.
7. Don’t Forget Whole-Life Implications
Version 7 strengthens links between energy performance, carbon and resilience.
Identifying envelope defects early:
- Reduces operational energy demand
- Improves occupant comfort
- Minimises future remedial carbon impact
Thermography is no longer just a quality check, it supports whole-life sustainability performance.
✅ Pro Tip
Position your thermographic survey as part of a performance verification strategy, not simply a compliance requirement.
Under BREEAM V7, evidence of measured performance is becoming as important as design intent — and thermography provides powerful visual proof.