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FAQ
Q. What is The ‘Code for Sustainable Homes?
A. A set of sustainable design principles for new housing covering performance in nine key areas, known as ‘Categories’. Each category below has some brief guidance notes and some links of relevance to that section.
Q. Why should I get my development rated?
A. It is intended that from April 2008 all new homes will be required to be rated against the Code. Any new home not assessed will receive a ‘0’ or ‘Nil’ rating and this will be made clear to any potential purchaser in the HIP.
Incidentally, Level 3 is the entry level for all new Social Housing and Government is aiming for Level 3 of the Code to be mandatory for all new homes by 2010
To get ahead of the market and assure that your new build homes meet the requirements of the consumer, we recommend that you start the process now.
Q. With an ever tightening market and profits already being squeezed, will having my development assessed have a detrimental effect on my bottom line?
A. Obtaining a rating need not have a negative affect on profits. Reduced running costs will make it more appealing to purchasers and should make obtaining “top end” prices much easier, for little or no extra on your build costs.
Q. I understand the above but have no idea how to obtain a rating.
A. Easy just call. As our foundations in the construction industry have grown out of a financial background we are qualified as “code for sustainable homes” assessors and can help you reach the rating of your choice in a non idealistic and sensible way, whilst always having a regard for your profits.
Q. How does it work?
The Code has a scoring system of six levels. The different levels are made up by achieving both the appropriate mandatory minimum standards together with a proportion of ‘flexible’ standards.
Code assessments are carried out in 2 stages. Design stage and Post completion stage.
It is essential that you start the process at the design concept stage. This will ensure that your development is registered against the current version of the code.
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