Thermal Imaging & BREEAM Projects
Why Thermal Imaging Surveys Matter for BREEAM Projects
Thermal imaging surveys play a vital role in achieving compliance and maximising performance under BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). As one of the world’s leading sustainability assessment methods for buildings, BREEAM sets high standards for energy efficiency and environmental performance — and thermographic testing is a key part of meeting them.
Here’s why thermal imaging surveys are so important.
1. Verifying Thermal Performance
BREEAM requires that the building fabric performs as designed. A thermal imaging survey helps verify insulation continuity, detect construction defects, and confirm that the building meets its specified thermal targets.
This provides confidence that the energy model reflects real-world performance — not just theoretical calculations.
2. Identifying Energy Loss
Thermal imaging cameras detect temperature variations across walls, roofs, floors, and junctions. These variations can reveal:
- Missing or poorly installed insulation
- Air leakage pathways
- Thermal bridging
- Moisture ingress
By identifying these issues early, project teams can significantly reduce operational energy use and long-term environmental impact.
3. Securing BREEAM Credits
A compliant thermographic survey can contribute a valuable BREEAM credit, helping improve your overall rating. Whether you’re targeting Very Good, Excellent, or Outstanding, every credit matters.
4. Resolving Heat Loss Issues Quickly
Thermal imaging provides a fast, non-invasive method for diagnosing heat loss problems. Rather than relying on guesswork, contractors and consultants can pinpoint defects precisely and implement corrective measures efficiently.
5. Supporting Building Regulations Compliance
Thermography is widely regarded as the most effective method of assessing insulation continuity and detecting air leakage in completed buildings.
It plays an important role in demonstrating compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations and helps secure Building Control sign-off.
Minimum Requirements for BREEAM Thermal Surveys
Not all thermographers are qualified to conduct BREEAM-compliant surveys.
For BREEAM projects, thermographic inspections must be carried out by a certified professional holding at least:
- Level 2 / Category 2 certification in accordance with ISO 18436-7:2014
This certification requires:
- Approved training
- A rigorous examination process
- A minimum of 1,200 hours of supervised practical experience
A Level 1 thermographer is not permitted to conduct surveys independently under ISO 18436-7 unless working under the supervision of a Level 2 professional.
Additionally, qualifications such as:
- PCN (Civil) Level 2
- ABBE Level 4 Building Thermographer
are recognised by the United Kingdom Thermography Association (UKTA) as suitable for BREEAM thermographic surveys.
It’s always advisable to confirm acceptance of qualifications with your appointed BREEAM assessor before commissioning a survey.
Why ISO 18436-7:2014 Matters
The ISO 18436-7:2014 standard defines the competency requirements for professionals carrying out infrared thermography for condition monitoring and diagnostics.
Although originally developed for machinery monitoring, its structured certification pathway ensures thermographers have the technical knowledge and analytical ability required to perform accurate thermal assessments in building applications.
The standard provides:
- Formal recognition of competency
- A three-category qualification structure
- Clear guidance on measurement, analysis, and reporting
For BREEAM surveys, certification to this standard ensures professionalism, reliability, and compliance.
Thermal Camera Specifications for BREEAM
The minimum camera resolution required for a BREEAM thermal survey is:
- 320 × 240 pixels
However, most professional thermographers use:
- 640 × 480 resolution cameras — providing four times the image detail and significantly improved diagnostic capability.
High-end services often use large-format thermal imaging cameras (commonly from manufacturers such as FLIR Systems) with wide-angle lenses to capture detailed building fabric assessments.
Camera specifications may vary depending on project scope, so always confirm requirements in advance.
How to Find a Qualified BREEAM Thermographer
If you’re sourcing a suitably qualified professional, consider checking recognised industry bodies such as:
International Association of Certified Thermographers (IACT)
The International Association of Certified Thermographers maintains a register of certified thermographers whose qualifications have been independently verified.
United Kingdom Thermography Association (UKTA)
The United Kingdom Thermography Association represents professional thermographers across the UK and provides access to qualified practitioners experienced in BREEAM surveys.
Other recognised organisations may be available depending on your region.
Why Choose Us for Your BREEAM Thermal Imaging Inspection?
We deliver professional thermal imaging inspections that exceed BREEAM’s minimum requirements.
Our credentials include:
- Level 3 thermographic certification (the highest accreditation available)
- UKAS-accredited and ATTMA Level 2/3 certified services
- UKAS-calibrated equipment
- Large-format 640 × 480 FLIR thermal cameras
- Comprehensive reporting, including thermal indexing formulas for fault diagnosis, qualification, and severity grading
Our integrated air tightness and thermographic services ensure a complete performance assessment — helping you secure compliance, optimise energy efficiency, and protect your BREEAM rating.
To discuss your project requirements or arrange a site visit, contact APT Sound Testing on 01525 303905, email info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk, or visit www.aptsoundtesting.co.uk.
