Building for a Healthy Life Assessments
BHL Assessments Ltd provides the UK’s first dedicated online tool for structured Building for a Healthy Life self-assessment, with optional independent validation by The Design Review Panel.
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About BHL Assessments LtdBHL Assessments Ltd was founded by Jonathan Braddick, Chartered Architect and founder and Managing Director of The Design Review Panel. The company provides the UK’s first dedicated online tool for assessing schemes against the Building for a Healthy Life framework.After completing a self-assessment, BHL Assessments can then submit the information you provide to The Design Review Panel for an independent, impartial, multidisciplinary review. This process leads to the issue of a validated certificate, which may carry weight as a material consideration in planning under Paragraph 138 of the NPPF.
Trusted by landpromoters, developers,planning consultants, architects, urban designers and town planners across England ...
ABOUT BHL ASSESSMENTS
BHL Assessments Ltd provides a clear, structured way to measure housing schemes against the nationally recognised Building for a Healthy Life (BHL) framework. The framework is publicly available and was developed by others, but we provide the UK’s first dedicated online tool for self-assessment and validation.The company was founded by Jonathan Braddick, Chartered Architect (RIBA) and founder and Managing Director of The Design Review Panel. With more than 25 years’ experience across architecture, planning, and design review, Jonathan has led The Design Review Panel in reviewing over 750 projects across more than 150 local authority areas since 2013. That experience has highlighted the need for a straightforward, accessible way to demonstrate quality placemaking in line with national policy.Independent and ImpartialBHL Assessments Ltd does not conduct reviews itself and is not the author of the Building for a Healthy Life framework. Our role is to provide the digital tool and facilitate independent review. All validations are carried out by The Design Review Panel — a nationally operating, independent, and impartial body comprised of volunteer professionals across architecture, urban design, landscape, planning, and ecology.This independence ensures that validations are transparent, unbiased, and credible. Feedback and certificates from The Design Review Panel may carry weight as a material consideration in planning, in line with Paragraph 138 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).From Self-Assessment to ValidationThe process begins with a self-assessment, completed online by the applicant or design team. This allows promoters, developers, designers, and planning authorities to review how a scheme measures against the 12 key principles of the BHL framework.Once the self-assessment is complete, BHL Assessments can submit the information you provide to The Design Review Panel for an independent, impartial, multidisciplinary review. This leads to the issue of a validated certificate, confirming the Panel’s professional opinion of the scheme’s performance.Why This MattersDesign quality and placemaking are increasingly central to the planning process. Having a clear, independently validated BHL certificate:Demonstrates commitment to high-quality design.Provides transparency and accountability in decision-making.Can support planning submissions by evidencing design quality in line with national policy.Offers a more efficient, lower-cost route than a full Design Review Panel session, while retaining independence and impartiality.Our RoleOur mission is to make the BHL assessment and validation process accessible, efficient, and trustworthy. By combining a simple online tool with the authority of The Design Review Panel, we help land promoters, developers, designers, and planning authorities to evidence placemaking quality in a way that is recognised nationally and valued locally.
HOW IT WORKS
Step 1: Complete the Self-Assessment
Work through 12 sections with space to upload plans and supporting documentation and comments. Complete in one sitting, or save and return later.Step 2: Get Your Certificate
Once ready, submit and you will receive a PDF Self-Assessment Certificate by email, within a few minutes.Step 3: (Optional) Independent Validation
Submit your certificate to The Design Review Panel for impartial and independent review and issue of a validated certificate. Feedback from design review panels is a material consideration in planning submissions as per Paragraph 138 of the NPPF.
prices
Start with the self-assessment, or progress directly to independent validation by The Design Review Panel. Each option includes transparent pricing and a clear process to help you evidence design quality in planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
BHL Assessments Ltd Privacy Policy
Last updated: 1st September 2025This Privacy Policy explains how BHL Assessments Ltd (“we”, “us”, “our”) collects, uses, stores, and shares personal data and project information in connection with our website, online tool, and related services.We are committed to protecting your privacy and complying with UK data protection law, including the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.1. Who We AreBHL Assessments LtdCompany No. 16364903, registered in England and WalesRegistered office: Alphinbrook Business Centre, Alphinbrook Road, Marsh Barton Trading Estate, Exeter, EX2 8QRContact: [email protected]
| 01392 9277992. Information We CollectPersonal Data: name, email address, telephone number, billing details, account credentials.Project Information: drawings, plans, images, assessment responses, comments, supporting evidence uploaded for self-assessment or validation.Technical Data: IP address, browser type, device identifiers, cookies, and usage analytics.Communications: emails, enquiries, or support requests.3. How We Use InformationWe process information for the following purposes:To provide access to the self-assessment tool.To arrange Validation and Premium Validation by submitting materials to The Design Review Panel (Design Review Ltd).To manage bookings, payments, and scheduling.To improve, develop, and maintain our services.For internal research, teaching, training, statistical analysis, and service design.For marketing and promotional purposes (project data anonymised unless explicit consent is given to identify).For compliance with legal or regulatory obligations.4. Data Sharing with Third-Party PlatformsWe use the following platforms to deliver our services:Synology (local file storage and backup)Dropbox / Google Drive (document storage and sharing)Acuity Scheduling (booking management)The Design Review Panel website (Design Review Ltd) (validation sessions and uploads)Jotform Enterprise (form-based assessments and submissions)Carrd / Netlify (website and FAQ hosting)Zapier / Make (workflow automation)ChatGPT (OpenAI) (AI support for drafting reports, templates, and communications)We also share data with:The Design Review Panel (Design Review Ltd) for the purpose of carrying out independent validations.Payment providers (e.g. Stripe, GoCardless, Xero) for invoicing and administration.All third-party providers are required to comply with applicable data protection law.5. Sharing with The Design Review Panel (Design Review Ltd)Where a user requests a Validation or Premium Validation, BHL Assessments Ltd will securely transfer relevant self-assessment information and supporting material to Design Review Ltd (trading as The Design Review Panel), which operates independently.From the point of transfer, processing of the information is governed by Design Review Ltd’s own Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy, available at www.designreviewpanel.co.uk.BHL Assessments Ltd is not responsible for how Design Review Ltd processes the information once referred.6. AI PolicyWe may use artificial intelligence tools, including ChatGPT and other OpenAI services, to support operations (e.g. drafting documents, generating templates, processing anonymised data).Where personal or project data is used with AI tools, it will normally be anonymised.We do not share identifiable user data with AI providers unless strictly necessary for the requested service.Anonymised project data may be used for research, teaching, training, or service development.7. RetentionPersonal Data: retained for up to 7 years (legal and accounting purposes).Project Information: may be retained for up to 25 years for research, teaching, training, marketing, and other business-related purposes.Where used externally, project information will be anonymised unless explicit consent is provided.8. Legal Basis for ProcessingContractual necessity: to deliver services you request.Legitimate interests: to improve services, research, anonymised analysis.Consent: for direct marketing using personal data.Legal obligation: where processing is required by law.9. User RightsUnder UK GDPR you have rights to:- Access the personal data we hold.- Request correction or deletion.- Restrict or object to processing.- Request data portability.- Withdraw consent (where processing is based on consent).If your concern relates to the way we have provided our services (rather than how we handle your personal data), please see our Complaints Procedure available on our website. Under our Terms & Conditions (Clause 11: Complaints Procedure), users agree to follow this procedure before pursuing any other form of dispute resolution.If your concern relates specifically to the way we handle your personal data, you can:Contact us directly at [email protected]Or raise a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) at www.ico.org.uk
.10. Security and Breach NotificationWe use technical and organisational measures to protect data. If a breach occurs that may affect your rights, we will notify you and the ICO where legally required.11. Children and Sensitive DataOur services are not directed at under-18s, and we do not knowingly collect data from minors.We do not seek to collect “special category” data (e.g. health, ethnicity, political views). Responsibility rests with the user not to upload such data.12. International TransfersSome providers (e.g. OpenAI, Google, Dropbox) may process data outside the UK/EEA. We ensure safeguards (e.g. Standard Contractual Clauses) are in place.13. Cookies and AnalyticsOur website may use cookies and analytics to improve performance and track usage. You can disable cookies in your browser.14. Variation of PolicyWe may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Updates will be published on our website and take effect immediately.15. Governing LawThis Policy is governed by the laws of England and Wales. Disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.16. ContactBHL Assessments Ltd
Alphinbrook Business Centre, Alphinbrook Road, Marsh Barton Trading Estate, Exeter, EX2 8QR
Email: [email protected]Tel: 01392 927799
BHL Assessments Ltd Website Terms of Use
Last updated: 1st September 2025These terms of use (“Terms”) apply to your use of the website operated by BHL Assessments Ltd (“we”, “us”, “our”). By accessing or using this website, you agree to comply with and be bound by these Terms. If you do not agree, you must not use this website.1. Who We AreBHL Assessments LtdCompany No. 16364903, registered in England and WalesRegistered office: Alphinbrook Business Centre, Alphinbrook Road, Marsh Barton Trading Estate, Exeter, EX2 8QRContact: [email protected]
| 01392 9277992. Access to the Website2.1 We do not guarantee that our website, or any content on it, will always be available or uninterrupted.
2.2 We may suspend, withdraw, or restrict the availability of all or any part of our website without notice.
2.3 We may update and change the website content at any time.3. Intellectual Property Rights3.1 All content on this website, including text, graphics, logos, icons, images, and software, is owned by or licensed to BHL Assessments Ltd.
3.2 You may view, download, and print content for personal, non-commercial use only.
3.3 You must not copy, reproduce, distribute, modify, or create derivative works from any content without our prior written consent.4. Acceptable UseYou must not use this website:in any unlawful manner or for any unlawful purpose;to knowingly introduce viruses, trojans, worms, logic bombs, or other harmful material;to attempt to gain unauthorised access to the website, servers, or connected systems;to upload or transmit any material that is defamatory, offensive, infringing, or otherwise unlawful.5. Disclaimer5.1 The content on this website is provided for general information only. It does not constitute professional advice or create any contractual relationship.
5.2 While we make reasonable efforts to ensure the information is accurate, we make no representations, warranties, or guarantees that the content is accurate, complete, or up-to-date.6. Limitation of Liability6.1 To the fullest extent permitted by law, we exclude all liability for any loss or damage, whether direct, indirect, or consequential, arising out of or in connection with your use of this website.
6.2 Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence, fraud, or any liability which cannot be excluded by law.7. Links to Other Websites7.1 Our website may contain links to third-party websites or resources. These links are provided for your information only.
7.2 We have no control over the contents of those sites or resources and accept no responsibility for them.8. Variation of TermsWe may revise these Terms at any time by updating this page. Please check this page regularly to take notice of any changes, which are binding on you.9. Governing LawThese Terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.
BHL Assessments Ltd Terms and Conditions
Last updated: 1st September 2025These Terms and Conditions govern the use of the website, online tool, and services provided by BHL Assessments Ltd (Company No. 16364903, registered in England and Wales, registered office: Alphinbrook Business Centre, Alphinbrook Road, Marsh Barton Trading Estate, Exeter, EX2 8QR). By accessing or using our website, online tool, or services, you agree to be bound by these Terms.1. Definitions“Company” / “we” / “us” / “our”: BHL Assessments Ltd.“User” / “you” / “your”: any person or organisation using our website, tool, or services.“Self-Assessment”: the online assessment tool provided by BHL Assessments Ltd for users to complete against the publicly available Building for a Healthy Life framework.“Validation”: an independent review of a completed self-assessment and supporting information by The Design Review Panel, arranged by BHL Assessments Ltd.“Premium Validation”: an extended independent review process, including a presentation and/or site visit, arranged by BHL Assessments Ltd.“The Design Review Panel”: the independent, impartial, multidisciplinary body of volunteer professionals who carry out validations and issue certificates.“Certificate”: a written outcome produced by The Design Review Panel following Validation or Premium Validation.2. Scope of Service2.1 BHL Assessments Ltd provides access to an online tool for self-assessment against the Building for a Healthy Life framework.
2.2 BHL Assessments Ltd is not the author of the Building for a Healthy Life framework and makes no claim of ownership.
2.3 BHL Assessments Ltd does not provide professional services or professional advice.
2.4 Where a Validation or Premium Validation is requested, BHL Assessments Ltd acts solely as an agent and logistical facilitator. All reviews and certificates are produced independently by The Design Review Panel.3. User Responsibilities3.1 Users must provide accurate, complete, and lawful information.
3.2 Users are responsible for ensuring they have rights to any material they upload (drawings, plans, images).
3.3 Users are solely responsible for their use and reliance on self-assessment results or certificates.4. Payment and Pricing4.1 All fees are payable in full, in advance, and exclusive of VAT.
4.2 Access to the self-assessment tool and/or booking of Validation or Premium Validation will only be granted once cleared payment is received.
4.3 Prices may change at any time but will not affect services already paid.5. Cancellations and Refunds5.1 Self-assessments are non-refundable once access has been granted.
5.2 Validation and Premium Validation bookings are non-refundable and non-postponable once confirmed.
5.3 No refunds will be given where users fail to provide sufficient supporting information.6. Outcomes and Limitations6.1 Self-assessment results are generated solely from information entered by the user.
6.2 Validation and Premium Validation certificates represent the independent opinion of The Design Review Panel.
6.3 Certificates do not guarantee planning approval.
6.4 Outcomes are not subject to appeal. Users may book further reviews if required.7. No Professional Advice7.1 BHL Assessments Ltd does not provide professional services or professional advice.
7.2 Use of the tool and related services is for structured self-assessment only.
7.3 Responsibility for interpretation and reliance rests entirely with the user.8. Right to Withdraw Services8.1 BHL Assessments Ltd may withdraw, suspend, or terminate services at any time without prior notice.
8.2 We shall not be liable for any loss, damage, or expense resulting from incomplete assessments, interruptions, or lost data.
8.3 Users are responsible for keeping backup copies of any material submitted.9. Liability Disclaimer9.1 To the fullest extent permitted by law, BHL Assessments Ltd excludes all liability for any loss, damage, cost, or expense (direct, indirect, consequential, or implied) arising from the use of its website, app, tool, or services.
9.2 If BHL Assessments Ltd is found liable for any reason, liability shall be limited to the amount actually paid by the user for the relevant service.10. IndemnityBy using our website, tool, or services, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless BHL Assessments Ltd, its directors, employees, and agents, from all claims, losses, damages, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including legal fees) arising out of or connected with:your use of the tool, website, app, or services;information or material you submit;any breach of these Terms.11. Complaints Procedure
Before commencing any legal action, arbitration, or other form of dispute resolution, the user agrees to first follow and exhaust the BHL Assessments Ltd Complaints Procedure, as published on our website.BHL Assessments Ltd will treat all complaints seriously and will aim to resolve them in line with the published procedure. Only once the Complaints Procedure has been completed may either party escalate the matter further.12. Intellectual Property12.1 The Building for a Healthy Life framework is not owned or authored by BHL Assessments Ltd.
12.2 The website, tool, certificate templates, and associated materials are the intellectual property of BHL Assessments Ltd.
12.3 Users may not reproduce, copy, or distribute any part of the tool or certificates without prior written consent.13. Confidentiality and Data Protection13.1 All submitted project information is treated as confidential and used only for assessment, validation, and related purposes.
13.2 Personal data will be processed in accordance with our Privacy Policy.14. Use of Information and Retention14.1 By submitting information, users grant BHL Assessments Ltd a non-exclusive, royalty-free licence to use, store, reproduce, adapt, and analyse such information for:- service delivery;- research and statistical analysis;- marketing and promotional purposes (in anonymised or aggregated form unless explicit consent is given).14.2 Project information may be retained for up to 25 years.14.3 Personal data will be handled in line with our Privacy Policy and applicable data protection law.15. User ConductUsers must not misuse the tool, website, or services, including (but not limited to) uploading unlawful, defamatory, or malicious content.16. Force MajeureBHL Assessments Ltd shall not be liable for failure or delay in performing its obligations where caused by events beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, power or internet failures, or government restrictions.17. Variation of TermsWe may amend these Terms from time to time. Updated terms will be published on our website and apply immediately to all new use.18. SeverabilityIf any provision of these Terms is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain valid and enforceable.19. Entire AgreementThese Terms, together with our Privacy Policy, constitute the entire agreement between BHL Assessments Ltd and the user.20. Governing Law and JurisdictionThese Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.
BHL Assessments Ltd Sustainability / Green Policy
Last updated: 1st September 2025At BHL Assessments Ltd, we recognise that sustainability and environmental responsibility are central to good placemaking and resilient communities. Our mission is to support land promoters, developers, designers, and planning authorities in demonstrating quality housing schemes that align with the Building for a Healthy Life framework and wider sustainability goals.1. Our CommitmentWe aim to minimise our environmental footprint by operating primarily as a digital-first business.We promote remote-first processes where possible, reducing unnecessary travel and paper use.We support the use of independent, multidisciplinary design review to encourage housing schemes that integrate sustainability, biodiversity, and climate resilience.2. Our OperationsDigital by default: our assessments, validations, and certificates are all delivered electronically.Low travel impact: where Premium Validations require site visits, travel is minimised and shared transport is encouraged.Cloud storage: we use platforms such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and Synology, reducing reliance on paper filing.Energy-conscious IT: our systems are selected with efficiency and scalability in mind, limiting hardware waste.3. Our InfluenceThrough our services, we encourage:Housing schemes that reflect the principles of sustainable placemaking.Designs that integrate biodiversity, landscape sensitivity, and active travel.Independent validation that supports planning authorities in prioritising design quality and sustainability.4. Continuous ImprovementWe regularly review our working practices to reduce waste and emissions.We support and learn from our network of professionals within The Design Review Panel, who bring expertise across architecture, landscape, planning, and ecology.We commit to transparency in reporting on our sustainability practices.5. Our Future GoalsTo offset unavoidable carbon impacts of our operations.To partner with technology and service providers who share our sustainability ethos.To expand digital automation, reducing reliance on resource-heavy processes.BHL Assessments Ltd is committed to embedding sustainability into both our operations and the outcomes we help deliver, supporting better places for current and future generations.
BHL Assessments Ltd Complaints Proceedure
Last updated: 1st September 2025BHL Assessments Ltd treats all complaints seriously. Our aim is to provide a clear and full response, first time.What our complaints procedure coversThe standard of service we provide (e.g. use of our online self-assessment tool, scheduling and facilitation of validations).The conduct of BHL Assessments Ltd staff in providing customer service or administration.Circumstances where you think we have not acted appropriately in accordance with our published Terms & Conditions or policies.What our complaints procedure does not coverReconsidering the outcome of a self-assessment (as this is generated automatically based on the user’s inputs).Reconsidering the independent opinion of The Design Review Panel, or the content of validation certificates.Amending or altering feedback or certificates once issued.Planning authority decisions or government policy.Matters already dealt with through this procedure.Validation certificates reflect the independent opinion of The Design Review Panel and do not constitute professional advice. BHL Assessments Ltd acts only as facilitator in arranging validations, and is not responsible for the Panel’s independent feedback.Service standardsWe aim to acknowledge all complaints within 5 working days and provide a full written response within 30 working days. If a complaint is more complex, or relevant persons are unavailable, we may take longer but will inform you of any delay.How we use your informationWe take data protection responsibilities seriously. For details of how we handle your information, please see our Privacy Policy.How to complainComplaints should be made as soon as possible after the issue arises. We will not normally investigate complaints made more than one year after the relevant event.Complaints should include as much detail as possible, including dates, reference numbers (where applicable), and supporting information.You can submit complaints by:Email: [email protected]Post: BHL Assessments Ltd, Alphinbrook Business Centre, Alphinbrook Road, Marsh Barton Trading Estate, Exeter, EX2 8QRBefore making a complaintIf your issue relates to an assessment or validation that has not yet concluded, please contact our support team in the first instance. Most issues can be resolved informally at this stage.Stages of the complaints procedureStage 1The BHL Assessments Ltd Manager will investigate any complaint. This may include reviewing case records, contacting relevant staff, or seeking clarification from third parties such as The Design Review Panel.A written response will be provided.Stage 2If you remain dissatisfied, you may request that your complaint is reviewed by a senior representative of BHL Assessments Ltd who was not involved in the original handling. Their decision will be final.Remedy and redressWhere we uphold a complaint, our remedies may include:An apology, explanation, and acknowledgement of responsibility.Remedial action such as revising procedures, updating guidance, or providing further training.No financial compensation will be offered.FeedbackAs well as learning from complaints, we welcome constructive feedback and suggestions on how we might improve. Please send these to [email protected].
BHL Assessments Ltd Cookies Policy
Last updated: 1st September 2025This Cookie Policy explains how BHL Assessments Ltd (“we”, “us”, “our”) uses cookies and similar technologies on our website. It should be read alongside our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.1. What Are Cookies?Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work, improve functionality, and provide information to website owners.2. Types of Cookies We UseStrictly Necessary Cookies: required for the website to function (e.g. security, login sessions, form submissions).Performance & Analytics Cookies: help us understand how visitors use our website (e.g. Google Analytics). These are only used with your consent.Functionality Cookies: remember your preferences (e.g. language, settings) to improve your experience.Third-Party Cookies: set by third-party services integrated into our site (e.g. Jotform Enterprise, Acuity Scheduling, Netlify, Carrd, Dropbox, Google Drive, Zapier, Make).3. Why We Use CookiesWe use cookies to:Ensure the website operates securely and as expected.Analyse website traffic and usage to improve performance.Integrate third-party services necessary for delivering our tools and assessments.4. Managing CookiesYou can control and manage cookies in your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies, but this may affect website functionality.To learn more about cookies and how to manage them, visit www.allaboutcookies.org.5. ConsentWhen you first visit our website, you will be asked to accept or reject non-essential cookies (e.g. analytics). By continuing to use our website without changing your settings, you consent to the use of cookies as described in this Policy.6. Changes to This PolicyWe may update this Cookie Policy from time to time. Any updates will be posted on this page.7. Contact UsIf you have any questions about this Cookie Policy, please contact:BHL Assessments Ltd
Alphinbrook Business Centre, Alphinbrook Road, Marsh Barton Trading Estate, Exeter, EX2 8QR
Email: [email protected]Tel: 01392 927799
Contact
📧 [email protected]
📞 01392 927799BHL Assessments Ltd
Alphinbrook Business Centre, Alphinbrook Road,
Marsh Barton Trading Estate, Exeter, EX2 8QR
Company No: 16364903