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The Code for Sustainable Homes

The Code for Sustainable Homes

The Code for Sustainable Homes is a government supported initiative to ensure that new homes are built to minimise carbon dioxide emissions and environmental impact over the lifetime of the construction. This code will be used by designers, builders and buyers to easily determine the sustainability & environmental credentials of the house. The code will also form the basis of future developments of Building Regulations.

From April 2007, the Code for Sustainable Homes became mandatory for English Partnerships and Housing Corporation work. From May 2008, all new homes are required to have a Code Rating carried out in order to produce a Code Certificate.

• The code introduces minimum standards for energy and water efficiency at every level of the code; higher levels of sustainability achieve a higher code level.
• The code uses a simple star-rating system.
• The code includes new areas of sustainability designs such as ‘Lifetime Homes’ and the inclusion of composting facilities.
• The code is closely linked to Building Regulations which specifies the minimum building standards required by law.
• It is intended that the Code will act as a benchmark for future regulation changes for carbon emissions and energy usage.