Understanding the Meaning of the Code For Sustainable Homes

The Code for Sustainable Homes (C4SH) has recently replaced the Ecohomes scheme as the standard environmental assessment method for new housing within England and Wales.

The Code comprises of 6 levels conveyed in the form of star rating system and measures the performance of a new home against 9 categories of sustainable design. Each level within the code sets a minimum standard for energy and water usage within the property while also requiring an increased reduction of carbon emissions.

Although a rating against the Code is now mandatory for all newly built dwellings, most developers can currently opt for a 'nil rating' certificate that must be included with any subsequent Home Information Pack. However, all publicly funded schemes must now be built to Code Level 3 and similarly, many Local Authorities are now stipulating that properties must be built to minimum Code rating as a condition of obtaining planning permission.

As of October 2010, all properties being built in the UK will be required to obtain at least a Level 3, which in essense requires a 25% improvement against target emmision rates in Part L1A. For further details please review the C4SH PDF.

All Code assessments must be completed by a licensed assessor and usually comprise of the following two stages:

• An initial assessment and interim certification carried out at the design stage

• A final assessment and certification carried out after construction

Top Tips

Make sure that if your build is to start in 2010, that you make sure and get a SAP, PEA, and Code For Sustainable Homes Assessment done before you start your project to avoid any costly corrections in the future.

If you have a general concern, just give me a call and we can talk it through.