TM59 Overheating Assessments
At Melin Energy Consultants, we deliver TM59 overheating assessments for domestic developments, helping designers and developers demonstrate compliance while creating comfortable, future-ready homes. Our evidence-based assessments identify overheating risk early, supporting planning approval, informed design decisions, and a balanced approach to comfort, energy efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
Understanding Overheating Risk in Homes
Overheating has become a key concern in residential design, particularly as homes become more airtight and summer temperatures increase. Poorly managed solar gains, limited ventilation, and high internal heat loads can result in uncomfortable living conditions and planning challenges.
TM59 provides a recognised methodology for assessing overheating risk in residential buildings using dynamic thermal modelling. Our consultants apply this guidance to evaluate how homes perform during warm weather, ensuring designs align with Approved Document O and local planning expectations.
Our Approach
We work collaboratively with architects, developers, and consultants to integrate TM59 assessments seamlessly into the design process. Our service is tailored to the scale and complexity of each residential project, from individual dwellings to multi-unit schemes. Our approach includes:
- Early-stage design reviews to identify overheating risk
- Dynamic thermal modelling in line with CIBSE TM59
- Assessment of glazing, ventilation, orientation, and shading
- Clear compliance reporting for planning and building control
- Practical design recommendations to mitigate risk
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Key Regulatory Drivers
- Approved Document O – Limiting unwanted solar gains and ensuring effective ventilation
- CIBSE TM59 – Dynamic overheating assessment methodology for homes
- London Plan Policy SI 4 – Managing overheating risk in Greater London
- Local planning requirements – Increasingly mandating TM59 evidence
Modelling Residential Overheating Risk
Our overheating assessments use dynamic thermal modelling to simulate how homes perform under real-world and future climate conditions. By analysing internal temperatures, solar gains, and ventilation strategies, we identify practical design measures—such as shading, glazing specification, and airflow improvements—that reduce overheating risk and support compliance with planning and building control expectations.
Dynamic Thermal Modelling Software
We use industry-leading dynamic simulation software to model internal temperatures under realistic occupancy and weather conditions. This allows us to assess overheating risk across current and future climate scenarios, providing confidence that homes will remain comfortable over their lifespan. Our modelling considers solar gains, ventilation strategies, fabric performance, and internal heat loads to deliver accurate, defensible results.
TM59 Assessments for London Devlopments
Overheating risk is a particular focus for residential schemes in London, where higher densities and the urban heat island effect increase scrutiny. We have extensive experience delivering TM59 assessments that align with London Plan guidance and borough-level expectations, helping clients navigate planning requirements with confidence.
Speak to Our TM59 Specialists
Partner with Melin Energy Consultants for professional TM59 overheating assessments that support compliance, planning success, and high-quality residential design.