BREEAM Version 7 Launched

The latest update to BREEAM is Version 7 (V7) enhancing requirements around whole-life carbon, electrification, and verified performance. This update aligns BREEAM with net-zero targets, revised Building Regulations, and ESG reporting standards, resulting in a more practical and outcome-driven framework for delivering low-carbon design.

V7 was released to assessors on 16 July 2025, with public registration commencing 30 September 2025. V7 applies to New Construction (UK & International) schemes. Updates for Refurbishment, Fit-Out, and In-Use schemes will follow, while Infrastructure will remain on Version 6. Registrations for older schemes (2018, V6, V6.1) will close on 27 January 2026.

V7 delivers major updates to Mat 01 (Life-Cycle Assessment and Ene 01/02 (Energy & Carbon)), with stronger focus on embodied carbon, predictive energy modelling, biodiversity, and climate resilience. The “Simple Building” route has been removed, putting emphasis on measurable performance. Key changes include:

• projects seeking Outstanding status must be fossil-fuel-free
• excellent and Outstanding ratings require comprehensive LCA and embodied-carbon reporting
• energy minimums can be met via either Ene 01 (modelled) or Ene 02 (predicted) pathways
• indoor Air Quality Plans are now mandatory for projects targeting a Very Good rating
• revised scheme weightings place greater importance on embodied carbon and grid-emission factors to promote electrification.

Analysis by BRE indicates that projects typically score 3–5% lower under V7, reflecting more rigorous standards and closer alignment with the UK’s ambitions for a low-carbon built environment.

For more information on BREEAM and it’s various iterations check out the CIP Construction Environmental Manual