BDQ Online CPD Masterclass with BERA

7 STARS WITHOUT BUDGET BLOWOUTS: Smart, Cost-Efficient Pathways to Compliance

Overview
Join us for a technical CPD session exploring practical, cost-effective strategies for achieving 7-Star compliance without unnecessary upgrades or inflated build costs.

There is a common perception that moving to 7 Stars automatically requires more insulation, higher-spec glazing, and across-the-board upgrades. In reality, compliance under Deemed to Satisfy (Elemental) and NatHERS pathways can often be achieved through informed, early-stage design decisions rather than blanket specification increases.

This session will unpack what truly drives performance outcomes in both Deemed to Satisfy and NatHERS modelling, highlight where project budgets are frequently overspent, and demonstrate how strategic, targeted adjustments can deliver compliance efficiently. Attendees will gain practical insight into glazing optimisation, ceiling fan and QOLA strategies, and the value of early modelling to guide cost-effective decision-making.

The presentation will also provide guidance on communicating clear, evidence-based compliance pathways to clients and project teams, helping to align performance goals with budget expectations.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session, participants will:

– Identify the highest-impact, lowest-cost design strategies for achieving 7-Star compliance.
– Recognise and avoid common specification traps that lead to unnecessary cost increases.
– Apply targeted glazing, fan, and QOLA strategies strategically rather than uniformly.
– Understand how early-stage NatHERS modelling supports informed design decisions and cost control.
– Confidently communicate smart, cost-efficient compliance pathways to clients and project stakeholders.