Privacy in domestic building performance evaluation—preliminary framework for analysis

Abstract

A framework for the analysis of privacy and domestic building performance evaluation (BPE) shared dimensions is proposed. These conceptualized dimensions, based on non-exhaustive interdisciplinary literature review and BPE process experience, cover focus, aspiration and control as seen through privacy and domestic BPE lens. For each dimension key, directly relating concepts present in privacy discourse and BPE practice are identified. Such an approach allows an overlap in privacy and BPE focus of attention coinciding with contrary aspirations and tension in terms of assigning control over information to be captured. Addressing all these challenges is a crucial part of tacit knowledge of research or consultancy team responsible for the process; however, it is not explicitly reported in BPE literature. The proposed framework is intended to support further development of the domestic BPE ethical procedure, shown here as the key element in responding to privacy concerns. The ethical procedure is obligatory for academic-led BPE while for consultancy it is only recommended. This gap needs to be addressed before some form of domestic evaluations is taken up by mainstream construction. Further research needs are identified into the impact of privacy-related concerns on domestic BPE process.