Domestic ventilation requirements

Ventilation is much more than just providing fresh air: it forms the basis for a sustainable, healthy, and comfortable indoor climate. A good system efficiently removes moisture and stale air and continuously brings in fresh air. This reduces the risk of complaints such as fatigue, irritated airways, and concentration problems. At the same time, ventilation improves the quality, value, and lifespan of the home. Moisture and dust have less chance to accumulate and damage the structure—for example, through mould growth or damp patches. Good ventilation is therefore essential for an optimal indoor climate and plays an important role in the quality of your project.

In addition to its importance for health and comfort, ventilation is also required by law in many cases. For new construction and renovations in which more than 25% of the building envelope is modified or the function of a space is changed, the same requirements apply as for new-build homes. The rules are laid down in the Building Environment Decree (Bbl), formerly the Building Regulations 2012.

Among other things, the Bbl stipulates that every living space, bathroom, toilet and location of the cooking appliance must be ventilated, and that ventilation must be adjustable and effective. It also prescribes that air supply and extraction through permanent openings or a mechanical system is mandatory, and defines the minimum ventilation capacities. The most important ones are:

• Living rooms and bedrooms: min. 0.9 dm³/s per m²

• Toilet facilities: min. 7 dm³/s per room

• Bathrooms: min. 14 dm³/s per room

• Location of the cooking appliance: min. 21 dm3/s

Additionally, ventilation plays an important role in meeting the BENG requirements (Nearly Energy Neutral Buildings, energy performance), and technical guidelines have been laid down in NEN 1087 (ventilation of buildings) and NEN 8087 (domestic ventilation). These are not statutory rules, but they are often made mandatory via the Bbl or used when assessing licence applications.

Finally, the Program of Requirements Healthy Dwellings – with additional guidelines for health, air quality and comfort – is becoming an important assessment framework for an increasing number of clients, particularly in the design phase and in tenders.

No two homes are the same, so ventilation is always customised. Natural ventilation is rarely sufficient to guarantee healthy indoor air; a mechanical ventilation system is essential for constant air circulation and efficient air supply and extraction. This prevents damp problems and unnecessary energy loss.

The most suitable solution depends on factors such as the location of the property, the number of occupants, the intended use and the desired appearance. Most of the time balanced ventilation is the best choice. However, in other cases, a combination of natural supply and mechanical extraction may also be sufficient.

Additionally, choosing the right unit plays an important role in achieving an optimal indoor climate. Modern systems are often equipped with smart functions that automatically regulate air quality or recover heat from exhaust air (heat recovery).

A ventilation system with smart functions contributes directly to sustainability: it reduces energy consumption, limits CO₂ emissions and extends the lifespan of the home and its systems and interior. Would you like to go a step further? Then opt for circular, remanufactured systems and components. Reusing units and ventilation components saves raw materials, emissions and costs, and is financially attractive. Furthermore, remanufactured products are of equivalent quality to new products, and often even better. Read more about this in our blog ‘Sustainable ventilation: remanufactured systems on the rise’.

The same applies to ventilation: well begun is half done. Below you will find practical tips to help you achieve the right ventilation for your project:

1. Consider ventilation during the design phase
Ventilation is often only included in the design at a late stage. By considering this during the design phase, you can avoid costly modifications later on and offer residents the best possible solution.

2. Combine good insulation with good ventilation
The more airtight the home, the more important ventilation becomes. Without proper ventilation, an unhealthy indoor climate develops – with consequences for the well-being and comfort of the occupants and the lifespan of the home.

3. Adjust the ventilation capacity to the room
The minimum ventilation capacity is specified in the Bbl. However, in storage rooms or laundry rooms, additional air extraction is required because of the higher humidity levels and heat generation. Consider the function of each room, as well as factors that affect indoor air quality.

4. Opt for a modern, smart system
Newer systems measure air quality, humidity and CO₂ and automatically adjust accordingly. This increases comfort, reduces energy consumption and helps to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

5. Call in a ventilation specialist
The design, installation, adjustment and maintenance of a ventilation system requires professional expertise. A specialist such as Interduct will provide you with the right advice and ensure the best results.

Like to know more about domestic ventilation? Then check out the new-builds and apartment complexes pages too. Naturally, Interduct is always available for questions, advice or the realisation of a ventilation system that meets all requirements and perfectly matches any personal wishes. Send an email to info@interduct.nl or fill in our contact form. We will then contact you as soon as possible.