Defining nearly zero-energy housing in Belgium and the Netherlands

Europe expects the housing sector to evolve towards ‘nearly zero-energy’ dwellings. Meanwhile, general terms and research, marketing and legal definitions considering such dwellings have already been introduced. Appraisal of existing definitions is now needed for further policy development. This paper examines what nearly zero-energy terms can...

Passive house networks: A social innovation targeting innovation in SME's in the construction sector

This study examines opportunities for the emergence of SME networks regarding highly energy-efficient housing, as well as the barriers they face. A theoretical innovation diffusion model is developed from the point-of-view of social and environmental entrepreneurship and sustainable consumption. The qualitative analysis reflects key elements...

The Portuguese building regulation system: A critical review

Assessment method for buildings' Rehabilitation needs: Development and application

The purpose of this study was to develop an assessment method of a building rehabilitation needs. It was considered that a building needs rehabilitation if it would not comply with the functional requirements defined in Portuguese legislation or determined by good practices of design and construction. The functional requirements considered were:...

Portuguese method for building condition assessment

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss a method for assessing the condition of buildings. The method was developed in Portugal as part of a new Urban Tenancy Regime approved in 2006. Design/methodology/approach – The method was developed in six phases, namely: definition of objectives; analysis of existing instruments; formulation of...