BREEAM In-Use Version 7: What Asset Owners Need to Know
The upcoming BREEAM In-Use 7 will introduce greater emphasis on operational data, updated benchmarks, and measurable improvement targets from the outset, forming the basis for future recertifications.
The new version is expected to strengthen the robustness and comparability of certifications, supporting their value for market recognition, ESG reporting and long-term asset management.
New certifications will require more upfront planning and coordination, particularly in terms of data availability, technical assessment, and monitoring systems.
In light of the changes outlined below, BREEAM In-Use certification and recertification projects should be registered under Version 6 before the end of 2026 to secure asset quality and budget certainty.
When Will BREEAM In-Use Version 7 Come into Force?
The launch date for BREEAM In-Use Version 7 has not yet been officially confirmed. Based on current expectations, the international version may be released in late summer 2026. For the DACH region, however, Version 7 is currently not expected to come into force before 2027, according to TÜV.
Following the release, projects are expected to have a transition period:
- 6 months to register under Version 6
- A further 12 months to complete and submit the assessment under Version 6
This means that assets may still be able to register under Version 6 for a limited time after Version 7 is released.
What Does Version 7 Mean for Recertification?
All BREEAM In-Use certificates are valid for three years. After that, assets must be recertified under the BREEAM In-Use version that is valid at that time. This means that, over time, all assets will eventually need to be recertified under Version 7, even if the original certification was completed under Version 6.
Recertification under Version 7 will become more performance-based and it will no longer be a repeat of the initial assessment. Under Version 7, assets are expected to set specific improvement targets during the initial assessment, which will then form the basis for future recertification cycles.
In practice, recertification will assess whether progress has been made, and whether implemented measures can be demonstrated with evidence.
Recommended Action Before Version 7
For assets approaching certification or recertification, it may be advisable to register under Version 6 while this is still possible.
Based on the expected timeline, asset owners should consider registering certifications or recertifications under Version 6 before the end of 2026, with final submission targeted before the end of 2027 or before the certificate expires.
Version 7 is expected to introduce more demanding requirements. Achieving the same rating as under Version 6 may therefore require additional improvement measures and potentially additional CAPEX.
Key Expected Changes in BREEAM In-Use Version 7
The official changes compared with Version 6 have not yet been officially published. However, BRE has already shared initial proposals and discussed possible updates with assessors.
It should thus be noted that following highlighted adaptations are provisional and the extent might differ from the actual manual.
Shift from compliance-based approach to performance-based assessment
Version 7 is expected to make the assessment clearer, more performance-focused and more demanding, with higher ratings depending increasingly on measurable operational performance and robust evidence.
Examples of this expected shift include:
- Greater focus on actual performance improvements (e.g. HEA08: requirements for assets to demonstrate actual ventilation performance)
- Increased use of continuous monitoring and real-time data (e.g. HEA09: continuous IAQ monitoring using real-time sensors such as CO2, PM, NO2, …)
- Stronger emphasis on evidence of implementation, not just policies (e.g. RSL01: higher levels of credits are awarded for implemented adaptation measures with evidence of performance and maintenance)
Stronger alignment with net-zero and ESG frameworks
Version 7 aims to better integrate with global sustainability frameworks such as the EU Taxonomy.
Key proposed updates include:
- Introduction of dual energy metrics (Energy Use Intensity and Carbon Intensity)
- More consistent carbon measurement methodologies
- Greater focus on operational carbon tracking and decarbonization pathways
New topics and expanded scope
Version 7 introduces or strengthens several categories:
- Energy: remodeling the asset energy calculator, providing greater alignment with net zero carbon initiatives by using a dual metric approach based on Energy Use Intensity and Carbon Intensity
- Indoor environmental quality: broader indoor air quality monitoring (beyond CO₂)
- Resilience: integration of multi-hazard climate risk assessments and adaptation planning
- Circularity and resources: stronger focus on reuse, material inventories, and potentially embodied carbon
- Mobility: shift from “transport” to a more holistic “mobility” concept
- Health and wellbeing: potential inclusion of biophilic design and enhanced occupant feedback mechanisms
Alignment across BREEAM schemes
Version 7 aims to improve consistency across the BREEAM schemes:
- Alignment of rating systems (moving from 6 to 5 levels)
- Harmonisation with New Construction and Refurbishment schemes
- Simplified certification timelines and processes
Increased digitalisation and portfolio-level efficiency
Version 7 will be delivered through a unified BREEAM platform.
- Centralised management of multiple assets
- Reuse of portfolio-wide policies and evidence
- Improved transparency on credit allocation and certification processes
To ensure your project is aligned with the new requirements, get in touch with
Steve Cailler: steve.cailler(at)dreso.com