Thermal Modelling Services

Dynamic Thermal Modelling & Part O Overheating Assessments

At EnergyCore Compliance, we provide professional thermal modelling services to help architects, developers and construction professionals design energy-efficient, comfortable and compliant buildings. Using industry-leading simulation software, we analyse how buildings perform throughout the year, allowing informed design decisions to be made before construction begins.

Whether you require a Part O Overheating Assessment, TM52 or TM59 overheating analysis, or comprehensive dynamic thermal modelling (DTM) for commercial developments, our experienced consultants deliver accurate assessments with practical recommendations to support planning approval and Building Regulations compliance.

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What is Thermal Modelling?

Thermal modelling, also known as Dynamic Thermal Modelling (DTM), is the process of creating a digital simulation of a building to predict how it will perform under real-life weather conditions throughout the year.

Unlike simplified calculations, dynamic thermal modelling evaluates how heat enters, leaves and moves throughout a building by considering factors such as:

• Building orientation
• Solar gains
• Construction materials
• Insulation performance
• Glazing specifications
• Ventilation strategies
• Occupancy levels
• Internal heat gains from lighting and equipment
• Local weather data

The result is a highly accurate prediction of internal temperatures, helping design teams identify overheating risks, improve occupant comfort and reduce future energy consumption.

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Our Thermal Modelling Services

Part O Overheating Assessments

Following the introduction of Approved Document Part O, many new residential developments require an overheating assessment to demonstrate compliance with Building Regulations.

We carry out detailed Part O assessments using dynamic thermal modelling where required, helping developers satisfy local authority and Building Control requirements while identifying practical design improvements that reduce overheating risk.

Our assessments consider:

• Solar gains
• Window sizes and orientation
• Natural and mechanical ventilation
• External shading
• Thermal mass
• Occupancy patterns

Where overheating risks are identified, we provide practical recommendations to achieve compliance without unnecessary construction costs.

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TM52 Overheating Assessments

CIBSE TM52 provides the recognised methodology for assessing overheating in non-residential buildings.

Our TM52 assessments are commonly undertaken for:

• Offices
• Schools
• Healthcare facilities
• Commercial buildings
• Educational buildings

By modelling building performance under future weather conditions, we help designers optimise ventilation strategies and improve occupant comfort before construction begins.

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TM59 Overheating Assessments

TM59 is the recognised methodology for assessing overheating risk in residential buildings.

Using dynamic thermal modelling, we assess apartments, houses, student accommodation and care homes against the CIBSE TM59 criteria to demonstrate compliance with planning and Building Regulations.

Early-stage modelling enables architects to make informed design decisions that minimise overheating while maintaining attractive architectural designs.

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Commercial Building Thermal Modelling

We provide comprehensive thermal modelling for commercial developments of all sizes.

Our modelling services support:

• Planning applications
• Building Regulations compliance
• HVAC system optimisation
• Passive design strategies
• Energy efficiency improvements
• Sustainability targets
• Design option comparisons

By analysing different design scenarios, we help project teams identify the most effective and cost-efficient solutions before construction begins.

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Why is Dynamic Thermal Modelling Important?

Modern buildings are becoming increasingly airtight and well insulated, improving energy efficiency but also increasing the potential for overheating.

Dynamic thermal modelling allows potential issues to be identified during the design stage, helping avoid expensive redesigns, planning delays and occupant discomfort once the building is occupied.

The benefits include:

• Improved occupant comfort
• Reduced overheating risk
• Better informed design decisions
• Lower operational energy consumption
• Optimised HVAC design
• Support for planning approval
• Compliance with Part O and CIBSE guidance
• Reduced construction risk

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Who Requires Thermal Modelling?

Our thermal modelling services are regularly used by:

• Architects
• Property developers
• Mechanical and electrical consultants
• Planning consultants
• Building services engineers
• Contractors
• Housing associations
• Commercial property owners

Whether you’re designing a single residential development or a large commercial project, our modelling provides the evidence needed to support compliant, efficient building design.

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Our Thermal Modelling Process

We make the process straightforward from initial enquiry through to final reporting.

1. Project Review

We review your drawings, architectural information and project requirements to determine the most appropriate assessment methodology.

2. Digital Building Model

Our consultants build an accurate virtual model using specialist dynamic simulation software, incorporating construction details, glazing, ventilation systems and occupancy profiles.

3. Thermal Simulation

The building is simulated using recognised UK weather data to predict internal temperatures throughout the year under realistic operating conditions.

4. Analysis & Recommendations

If overheating risks are identified, we provide practical design recommendations such as improved shading, glazing adjustments or ventilation strategies to help achieve compliance.

5. Final Report

You’ll receive a comprehensive report suitable for submission to Building Control, planning authorities or project stakeholders.

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Why Choose EnergyCore Compliance?

At EnergyCore Compliance, we understand the pressures faced by architects and developers to deliver compliant buildings within tight project deadlines.

Our experienced consultants provide:

• Fast turnaround times
• Accurate dynamic thermal modelling
• Part O, TM52 and TM59 expertise
• Practical, buildable recommendations
• Competitive fixed-fee quotations
• Clear and easy-to-understand reports
• Responsive technical support throughout your project

Our aim is to provide more than a compliance report—we help optimise building performance while reducing project risk and supporting successful planning outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dynamic Thermal Modelling (DTM)?

Dynamic Thermal Modelling is an advanced computer simulation used to predict how a building will perform throughout the year under changing weather conditions. It provides a far more accurate assessment than simplified calculation methods and is commonly used to demonstrate compliance with Part O, TM52 and TM59.

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When is a Part O Overheating Assessment required?

Part O assessments are typically required for new residential developments in England where overheating must be assessed as part of Building Regulations compliance. Depending on the project, a simplified method or dynamic thermal modelling may be required.

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What is the difference between TM52 and TM59?

TM52 is used to assess overheating risk in non-residential buildings such as offices, schools and healthcare facilities.

TM59 applies specifically to residential buildings, including apartments, houses, student accommodation and care homes.

Both methodologies use dynamic thermal modelling but apply different assessment criteria depending on the building type.

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What information do you need to provide a quotation?

To prepare an accurate quotation, we’ll usually require:

• Architectural floor plans and elevations.
• Site location.
• Building use and occupancy.
• Construction details (if available).
• Glazing specifications.
• Ventilation strategy.
• Project stage and required timescales.

If some information isn’t yet available, our team can advise on what’s needed and provide guidance during the early design stages.

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How long does a thermal modelling assessment take?

Timescales vary depending on the size and complexity of the development. Smaller residential projects can often be completed within a few working days, while larger commercial buildings may require additional modelling and analysis.

We always aim to meet your project deadlines and can discuss expedited delivery where required.

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