Technical

The Code for Sustainable Homes was launched on 13 December 2006 and came into force in April 2007. It supersedes EcoHomes in England. Wales is still considering whether to introduce it.

 

Assessment under the Code is voluntary, unless it is a Housing Corporation funded or English Partnerships site where Level 3 is required as a minimum. The Government is minded to make a Code rating compulsory for all new homes later this year and they are also proposing that Lifetime Homes Standards will become a mandatory element at Level 6.

 

There are star ratings at six levels, with level one requiring thermal efficiency just above Part L 2006; level three being just above EcoHomes Very Good, and level six being 'zero carbon.' Each level will have minimum standards for thermal and water efficiency plus minimum requirements for materials, surface water run-off and waste. For entry level there are additional categories dealing with pollution, health and wellbeing, management and technology.

 

For more information go to the Planning Portal website

 

If you are having any problems with the Code please ring the London office on 020 7960 1600 or email technical@hbf.co.uk

 

 

 

 

***Access to certain areas of content may be restricted to members only. Please login with your username and password to access all content.***