Author(s): Sakura Tanaka and Haruto Yamamoto

Abstract: The study investigates the dual impact of revised building regulations on the cost and quality of refurbishment projects, focusing on projects executed between 2010 and 2024 across the UK and EU. With the growing emphasis on energy efficiency, safety, and sustainability, updated regulatory frameworks have significantly influenced how refurbishment projects are planned, executed, and evaluated. Using a mixed-method approach integrating quantitative cost and defect data from 57 projects (42 post-revision and 15 pre-revision) with qualitative insights from industry professionals, the research quantifies the economic and qualitative consequences of regulatory tightening. Statistical analyses, including t-tests and multiple regression models, reveal that projects undertaken under revised regulations experienced, on average, 35-40% higher cost overruns compared to those governed by legacy codes. However, these same projects demonstrated a notable 30-45% reduction in defect density, confirming that stricter standards enhance construction quality and operational performance despite increased capital expenditure. The findings highlight that building vintage, regulatory stringency, and project scale significantly moderate these outcomes—older buildings and large-scale refurbishments experience greater compliance challenges but also more pronounced quality gains. The discussion underscores the necessity of balancing regulatory ambition with economic practicality through adaptive compliance frameworks and strategic planning mechanisms. The study concludes that while revised building regulations elevate short-term costs, they deliver long-term benefits by extending asset life, reducing maintenance cycles, and ensuring higher user satisfaction. Practical recommendations emphasize early compliance planning, the use of digital construction tools, third-party quality audits, skill upgradation, and evidence-based feedback systems to ensure both cost efficiency and regulatory adherence. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, project managers, and industry practitioners seeking to optimize refurbishment outcomes under evolving regulatory regimes.

Pages: 41-45 | Views: 21 | Downloads: 11

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