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Code for Sustainable Homes

Code for Sustainable Homes

The Code for Sustainable Homes was launched on 13 December 2006.  The code applies in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.  The code is voluntary and the current Government has stated that it has no intention to make the code mandatory.

The code can only be enforced where; local councils require compliance as per their planning policy and in affordable housing funded by the HCA (homes must be built to level 3).  The level 3 energy standard is now incorporated into the building regulations.

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

However, the ground covered by the Housing Standards Review also raises the question of the future of the Code for Sustainable Homes.  The consultation document does not approach this question as a specific headline topic, but the overview does state (paragraph 40) that:

With regard to the Code for Sustainable Homes, as already noted this has been considered as part of the review.  Where there are significant issues for carrying forward, these have been reflected in the consultation proposals.  In light of that, and the outcome of this consultation, the government proposes to wind down the role of the Code.  We will put in place transitional arrangements to ensure that contractual commitments under the Code can be properly covered.

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