Composite insulation elements
Composite insulation elements are prefabricated insulation elements which are mechanically fixed directly to the load-bearing wall as external wall cladding. A composite insulation element consists of a thermal insulation layer and an outer weather protection layer.
Regulatory framework
DIBt grants national technical approvals (abZ) for composite insulation elements. European Technical Assessments (ETAs) can also be issued for these products.
There are no conclusive technical rules for the design and execution of construction techniques with composite insulation elements. DIBt grants general construction technique permits (aBG) for these applications. National technical approvals and general construction technique permits are usually granted together in a single decision ('combined decision').
Please also note the applicable design and execution rules for external wall claddings in terms of reaction to fire in accordance with Part A 2.1.5 as well as Annex 5 of the MVV TB (Technical Rule A 2.2.1.5 – 'ETICS with EPS – method for facade base fire tests').
National procedure
A national technical approval (abZ) and/or oder general construction technique permit (aBG) is granted upon application (see Model Building Code (MBO), Sections 16a(2) and18(2) and (4)). This also applies to amendments and supplements to, or renewals of existing approvals and/or construction technique permits.
No formal requirements apply. The following information is needed: name and address of the applicant, description of the product and/or construction technique and its field of use or application, type of decision required (new decision, amendment or supplement to, or renewal of, an existing decision).
Please feel free to use the template below.
- pdf-Datei Application for a national technical approval and/or construction technique permit (4 pages ) Version: 10 April 2024; Application form
- pdf-Datei Application for amendment / supplementation / renewal of a national technical approval and/or construction technique permit (4 pages ) Last updated: 10 April 2024; Application form
- pdf-Datei Guideline: How to provide drawings for national technical approvals and general construction technique permits (5 pages ) Version: July 2017
European Technical Assessment (ETA)
To start the ETA procedure, please submit the form below. We will then check if the prerequisites for issuing an ETA are met, i.e., in particular, if the product is not fully covered by an existing harmonised standard. If the prerequisites are met, we will check whether a European Assessment Document (EAD) covering the requested assessment scope already exists or still needs to be developed. If an EAD needs to be developed or amended, a complete technical file needs to be established before the procedure can begin.
- pdf-Datei Form for requesting a European Technical Assessment (ETA) (2 pages ) Last updated: 10 April 2024