Getting started with building performance feedback
Performance feedback through post occupancy evaluation (POE) is a powerful mechanism for bringing about improvements in building design and operation.

A consortium of construction interests, led by BRE, has recently developed a strategic method of post occupancy evaluation specifically tailored to the early stages of a building’s occupancy (ie the first twelve months). The aim of the project, which has been sponsored by the DTI through its Partners in Innovation (PII) scheme, is to promote the more widespread uptake of post occupancy evaluation (POE) during the early stages of occupation.

The POE method has been developed as a voluntary Code of Practice that can be adapted to suit the circumstances and needs of a particular project. It is based at a strategic level and focuses attention on considering key aspects of building performance that merit attention at the early stages of occupancy, whilst highlighting the need to instigate more detailed evaluation processes to be put in place over the lifetime of the building. The intention is to focus on the positive benefits to clients and their project teams of having a common goal of achieving optimum building performance.

Please note that the use of this method is not intended to alter any obligations under standard duties.
The method involves completing a POE checklist during a structured discussion between the client and project team in a workshop setting. The full version of the early stage POE method can be downloaded here (pdf file)

Supporting information about the use of the method can be found in BRE Digest 478, ‘Building performance feedback: getting started’ which can be purchased online from BRE bookshop.com. We would encourage all intended users of the method to familiarise themselves with this brief document before progressing further.

The Digest introduces readers to the early stage method of POE and discusses how this method might be employed within a project. It also provides more background to the POE debate by setting out some general principles of post occupancy evaluation. Further sources of POE advice are referenced throughout and listed at the end of the document.

Please note that your practice PI insurer should be consulted as soon as possible about a request or intent to carry out a POE before any such agreement is made. This will allow potential implications for PI insurance or the defects liability period to be discussed.

If you would like any further information about this project please contact Mindy Hadi or Pete Grigg on 01923 66 4300 or e-mail environment@bre.co.uk.