Delivering Quality
Construction & Handover for Large & Complex Low Energy Buildings
Lead author: Allan Smith (Morrison Construction)
Bringing together industry leading Tier 1 contractors, the Passivhaus Trust & Built Environment – Smarter Transformation to explore how we can consistently achieve high-performance outcomes in practice. This paper focuses on the critical role of quality in closing the performance gap – highlighting the importance of clear targets, robust design processes, and rigorous verification on site.
Drawing on real project experience, this good practice guide provides clear, actionable guidance across programming, procurement, training, quality control, commissioning, and handover. It includes checklists, case studies, sequencing diagrams, and evidence based processes to help project teams deliver robust, high performance buildings consistently and confidently.
Thanks to sponsors Morrison Construction & Balfour Beatty for funding this publication.
Digital resources pack
- Download entire resources pack ZIP file
- Print-ready section summary checklists
- Fig. 1: The culture of quality across project delivery against RIBA stages
- Fig. 2: The ability to influence quality outcomes across project delivery against RIBA stages
- Fig. 4: Diagram showing the pre-planning of interim air testing
- Fig. 5: Example of short-term planning programme
- Fig. 6: Procurement process highlighting supply chain integration and support
- Fig. 7: Example of sequencing added to detail to explain the build and installation sequence
- Fig. 10: Hierarchy of training
- Fig. 13: Process of the evolution of detail mock-up testing to setting first in place inspection hold points
- Fig. 18: Sample extract from a Passivhaus certifier’s checklist, clearly highlighting what is required against each element
- Fig. 19: Use of software platform to generate work operating system
- Fig. 20: Extract of an example ITP for the installation of an envelope
- Fig. 23: Passivhaus site poster
- Fig. 25: Passivhaus training passport
FURTHER resources
- Low Energy Building Optimisation through Supply Chain Collaboration
- Passivhaus Certifier Scope of Services
- RIBA Passivhaus Overlay
- Steel in Passivhaus Construction
- Certifying a Passivhaus: Tips and Costs
- Thermal Bypass Risks
- RIBA Plan of Work
- Code of Practice for Project Management for the Built Environment
- Considerate Constructors’ Best Practice Hub
- BE-ST Skills & training
- 2025 Large and Complex Passivhaus Masterclass on-demand