When Will BREEAM RFO V7 Release? Timeline & Updates

What is BREEAM RFO?

BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit-Out (RFO) is the industry-standard framework used to assess the environmental performance of existing buildings undergoing renovation. Unlike "New Construction" schemes, RFO is specifically tailored to the unique challenges of working with what’s already there — whether that’s a Victorian warehouse conversion or a company moving into an existing modern office space. It provides a roadmap for improving energy efficiency, occupant health, and material circularity without the carbon "cost" of knocking a building down and starting from scratch.

At its core, BREEAM RFO provides a structured way for developers, landlords, and occupiers to measure and improve environmental performance during refurbishment works. It evaluates key areas such as energy use, materials, waste, health and wellbeing, and management practices, ultimately awarding a certification that reflects how sustainable the upgraded asset is.

What’s Changing for BREEAM RFO?

We are currently in a pivotal transition period. While BREEAM New Construction (NC) V7 launched earlier this year, the RFO V7 update is the next major milestone we're anticipating. If BREEAM RFO V7 follows the same path as NC V7, we can expect a near future in which “light-touch” compliance becomes far less viable. In practical terms, project teams will need earlier engagement, better data, and clearer strategies around carbon, materials, and building performance if they want to achieve strong BREEAM ratings.

When will BREEAM RFO be Updated to V7?

Although no official confirmation has been given, we can expect BREEAM RFO V7 to release some time this year. On their website, BRE state, 'We are working on the timescales for the release of V7 for Refurbishment and Fit-Out, and BREEAM In Use. More information will follow over the coming weeks.', offering an optimistic hint that the update should arrive soon.

BREEAM Update Timeline:

September 2025: BREEAM New Construction V7 official launch
January 2026: BREEAM NC V7 fully replaces V6 - all new registrations must meet V7 specifications. BRE mention that RFO V7 is in development and that news will follow soon.
March 2026: Waiting for RFO V7 update - expected early Summer 2026

Thinking about becoming BREEAM certified?

ARM Environments offer specialist air quality services required for BREEAM certification, including BREEAM Indoor Air Quality Plans and BREEAM Air Quality Testing. Enquire below for a quick response or extra information 🔽.