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New code out for sustainable homes |
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The government has used construction and fire security specialist BRE’s sustainability system EcoHomes as the basis for its new Code for Sustainable Homes.
The new code is part of a government plan to minimise damage done to the environment by new development by making sure that sustainability is factored into new homes at the earliest possible stage. The code will replace EcoHomes for new homes in England from 1 April 2007. It will be fully functional as of spring of next year, operating with a network of licensed assessors ready to provide code certification. BRE has applauded the government following thelaunch of the code. The company’s Chief Executive Martin Wyatt said: “This move clearly demonstrates the government’s intention to tackle the environmental impacts of new construction. BRE is delighted that its EcoHomes system has been used as the basis of the government’s new code and we are sure that our existing assessor network of UKAS accredited competent people will rise to the challenge of delivering the code.”
While the new code is based on EcoHomes, there are significant differences between the two. The primary difference is the inclusion of new mandatory levels of performance across six key areas. (Namely energy efficiency, water efficiency, surface water management, site waste management, household waste management and use of materials.) New points regarding security, zero carbon technologies and lifetime homes have also been added.
Another difference is that under the Code, final certification is carried out upon the completion of the construction. Under EcoHomes, this occurred at the design stage. BRE will be holding a number of free events in the New Year to explain the code. Details of these can be found at: www.bre.co.uk/events
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