Part L Photo Evidence

Helping you record, organise and submit the construction photos needed for full Part L compliance

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Part L Photo Evidence Requirements

Under the updated Approved Document Part L (2021), developers must now provide detailed photographic evidence as part of the as-built construction record. These images form a crucial part of the information submitted to both the energy assessor and Building Control. Appendix B of Part L outlines exactly what needs to be collected and how it should be recorded.

This photographic evidence helps demonstrate that the completed construction matches the specification used in the design-stage SAP calculations. Before an EPC and BREL compliance report can be issued, the energy assessor must audit these images for every dwelling. Without this evidence, Building Control cannot sign off the project.

To help your project run smoothly and avoid delays, we've summarised what you need to capture and how to organise it effectively.

Part L photo evidence compliance

What Photographs You Need to Capture

According to Part L, photographs should show typical construction details for each property, recorded at the appropriate stage and before any works are covered up. Each image should be unique to the specific plot.

Below is an overview of the required categories:

1. Foundations, Substructure and Ground Floor

Photographs must show insulation quality and thermal continuity at:

  • Ground floor perimeter insulation

  • External door thresholds

  • Below damp-proof course on external walls

2. External Walls

For each wall type, you must record:

  • Ground floor–to–wall junction

  • Any structural elements that penetrate the insulation layer

For blown cavity fill, images should clearly show clean cavities and ties with minimal mortar.

3. Roof Construction

For each roof type, you need images showing insulation placement at:

  • Joist or rafter level

  • Eaves and gable ends

4. Openings

For each opening type, record:

  • Window placement relative to the insulation or cavity closer

  • External doorset placement relative to the insulation or cavity closer

5. Airtightness Details

Take additional images of airtightness features where they are not already visible within insulation continuity photos.

6. Building Services Equipment

For all space heating, hot water, ventilation and low/zero-carbon systems, capture:

  • Equipment labels showing make, model and serial numbers

  • Primary pipework insulation continuity

  • Mechanical ventilation duct insulation (where ducts run outside the thermal envelope)

How to Record and Manage Part L Photographs

Part L requires digital photos of sufficient quality and resolution for assessors to verify the construction detail. If a wide shot does not clearly show compliance, close-up images should be supplied.

To meet audit requirements:

  • Enable geo-location, date and time stamping on the device used.

  • Name each file correctly, including plot number and detail reference (e.g. P1/3b for Plot 1 eaves detail).

  • Use a structured storage system to ensure all images remain organised and accessible.

  • Capture photos at the correct moment—before works are covered up.

We strongly recommend providing site teams with a photo schedule and checklist to avoid missing key details. Missing evidence may require opening up completed work or arranging intrusive inspections, both of which cause delays and increased costs. Without complete evidence, the BREL report and EPC cannot be produced.

parl l photo evidence compliance explanation

Be Prepared: Setting Up a Robust Photo System

Collecting Part L evidence should be built into your site programme and quality management processes. Ensure you:

  • Have a reliable digital storage and backup process (cloud recommended)

  • Use devices capable of embedding geolocation, time and date

  • Ensure file naming is consistent across the project

  • Practice using the system before construction progresses

Poorly labelled or disorganised images often result in additional charges from assessors for sorting, matching, and preparing evidence for Building Control. A clear process from day one prevents costly issues later on. Need help? Get in touch today.

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