This current edition of Approved Document A - Structure,

Part A: Structure - a building needs to be designed in accordance with codes of practice so that dead, imposed and wind loads are safely transmitted through the structure to the ground, without causing deflection or deformation which would impair the stability of it, or adjacent buildings (A1). Consideration also needs to be given to the effects of ground movements (A2) and disproportionate collapse (A3).

This Approved Document incules guidance on structural elements of residential buildings of traditional masonry construction. It is recognised, however, that there are other suitable forms of construction in use in the housing sector some of which have been in common use for a number of years and have demonstrated an adequate performance in compliance whte A1 requirement. Such alternative forms include prifabricated timber, light steel and precast concrete framed construction.

 Download Approved Document Part A