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Code for Sustainable Homes updated
The Code for Sustainable Homes has been updated to take into account tougher new rules for energy efficiency in the Building Regulations.
The improved green rating for new homes will help deliver the next generation of green properties, which are built to the highest standards of sustainable design, and could reduce future utility bills by up to £2,250 a year in the most energy efficient homes.
It was announced that the Code will also make it easier for consumers and homeowners who want to grade the standard of their properties.
The new Code's green rating system has been improved by aligning the Code with the latest developments in building regulations, streamlining the Code and associated processes and resolving problems that have arisen in use of the Code.
The standards reflect the future goals for zero carbon homes, including measures for reducing energy consumption, minimising and recycling waste and promoting facilities for working at home.
It encourages a reduction in energy through the choice of building materials and the energy used during the construction.
The Code for Sustainable Homes was introduced in April 2007 as a standard to improve the overall sustainability of new homes and is rated from one to six, with one being the entry level and six the highest, reflecting outstanding sustainable development.
Nearly 8,000 homes have been completed to Code level standards in the first three years. The updated version will be a first step towards making it is easier for developers to deliver more green homes.
Housing Minister Grant Shapps said: "We need greener homes, but I also want to make it easier to build the homes this country needs. Good building standards can only be effective if they are easy to understand, and only applied where they are appropriate."
Further information:
Department for Communities and Local Government
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