Approved_Document_R_Volume1_Flashcards
What is the purpose of Approved Document R?
It provides guidance on how to comply with Part R of the Building Regulations, ensuring new dwellings are equipped with gigabit-ready infrastructure and network connections.
When did Approved Document R Volume 1 come into effect?
It took effect on 26 December 2022 for use in England.
What are the two key requirements in Approved Document R?
Requirement RA1: Gigabit-ready physical infrastructure, and Requirement RA2: Connection to gigabit-capable network.
How does Approved Document R relate to other Building Regulations?
It interacts with other regulations such as Part M (accessibility) and Part P (electrical safety) to ensure the practical implementation of network infrastructure.
Who is responsible for compliance with Approved Document R?
Developers, designers, builders, installers, and building control bodies.
What is the main purpose of Requirement RA1?
To ensure new dwellings are equipped with gigabit-ready physical infrastructure for future connectivity.
What must gigabit-ready physical infrastructure extend to?
It must extend from the network termination point to a distribution point or as close as is reasonably practicable.
What is a distribution point in the context of RA1?
A point where the gigabit-capable public electronic communications network terminates and distributes services.
What is required in buildings containing multiple dwellings?
A common access point must be provided to facilitate connectivity for all dwellings in the building.
Are there any exemptions to RA1?
Yes, buildings occupied by the Ministry of Defence, existing buildings undergoing renovation, and isolated buildings beyond cost-effective reach.
What is the main purpose of Requirement RA1?
To ensure new dwellings are equipped with gigabit-ready physical infrastructure for future connectivity.
What must gigabit-ready physical infrastructure extend to?
It must extend from the network termination point to a distribution point or as close as is reasonably practicable.
What is a distribution point in the context of RA1?
A point where the gigabit-capable public electronic communications network terminates and distributes services.
What is required in buildings containing multiple dwellings?
A common access point must be provided to facilitate connectivity for all dwellings in the building.
Are there any exemptions to RA1?
Yes, buildings occupied by the Ministry of Defence, existing buildings undergoing renovation, and isolated buildings beyond cost-effective reach.
What should developers do if they do not have rights to install infrastructure beyond the building?
They must install it as close as reasonably practicable to a network distribution point.
What technologies can be used for gigabit-ready physical infrastructure?
Full fibre optic cabling, fixed wireless access, satellite technologies, and hybrid coaxial cables.
Why should developers engage with network operators early?
To determine feasible routes for infrastructure and ensure compliance with regulations.
What must be installed for a single dwelling versus a multi-dwelling building?
A single dwelling requires an access point, while multi-dwelling buildings need a common access point.
Where can developers find guidelines on underground utilities positioning?
Street Works UK Guidelines on Positioning and Colour Coding of Underground Utilities’ Apparatus.
What does Requirement RA2 mandate?
Every new dwelling must be provided with a connection to a gigabit-capable public electronic communications network.
What happens if a gigabit-capable connection cannot be provided?
The next fastest available broadband connection must be installed within the £2000 cost cap.
What must be provided if no suitable connection can be established within the cost cap?
A developer must install gigabit-ready physical infrastructure for future connectivity.
What is the cost cap for developers under RA2?
£2000 per dwelling, excluding VAT and administrative costs.
How can a developer prove an exemption from RA2?
By providing evidence from at least two suitable network operators showing the connection cost exceeds the cap.
What alternative technologies can be used if full fibre is unavailable?
Fixed wireless access, satellite broadband, or DOCSIS 3.1 hybrid fibre-coaxial connections.
What must developers consider when placing a network termination point?
It should be centrally located to ensure strong signal coverage throughout the dwelling.
Who is responsible for securing the actual broadband service?
The occupant of the dwelling, as RA2 only mandates infrastructure, not service provision.
Can multiple network operators be accommodated?
Yes, developers can install multi-operator infrastructure to allow competition.
What document should developers refer to for broadband technology updates?
The Ofcom Connected Nations Report.
What is a connectivity plan?
A document submitted to a building control body detailing the network infrastructure and connections for a development.
What information must be included in Part A of the connectivity plan?
The location of gigabit-ready infrastructure, diagrams, and evidence supporting its installation.
What should be included in Part B of the connectivity plan?
Evidence supporting exemptions, such as network operator quotes or refusal letters.
What must developers do if they rely on an exemption?
Provide at least two quotes or refusal responses from network operators within 30 working days.
What additional documentation can be included in a connectivity plan?
Site maps, schematics, correspondence with network operators, and technical specifications.
When must a connectivity plan be submitted?
Before building work starts and when making applications for Building Regulations approval.
What penalties apply for failing to provide a connectivity plan?
A development may not receive regulatory approval, delaying occupation.
Who evaluates connectivity plans?
Building control bodies and relevant authorities overseeing compliance.
How can developers demonstrate planned infrastructure routes?
By including schematics and GIS-based maps in the connectivity plan.
Why should connectivity plans account for conservation areas?
Additional regulations may restrict network infrastructure installation in such areas.
What is an ‘access point’?
A physical point inside or outside a building where connection to a network is made available.
What is a ‘network termination point’?
The location where an occupier connects to a broadband service within their dwelling.
What is a ‘public electronic communications network’?
A network providing broadband services as defined under the Communications Act 2003.
What does ‘gigabit-capable’ mean?
A network capable of delivering broadband speeds of at least 1000 Mbps.
What is a ‘distribution point’?
A point where gigabit-capable network services are distributed to multiple buildings.
What is ‘high-speed electronic communications network’?
A network capable of broadband speeds of at least 30 Mbps.
What is ‘gigabit-ready physical infrastructure’?
Infrastructure designed to support gigabit-capable broadband networks, such as ducting and cables.
What is ‘USO-standard public electronic communications network’?
A network providing the minimum broadband speed set by the UK universal service order.
What is the ‘relevant 2-year period’?
The 2-year period within which a network distribution point is expected to be installed.
Why is the ‘network operator’ term important?
It refers to companies providing broadband services, which must be engaged for compliance.
