The Code for Sustainable Homes

The Code for Sustainable Homes became operational in England in April 2007 and a Code rating for new build homes became mandatory from 1 st May 2008. Note : Developments where notice or plans were received by a local authority prior to 1st May 2008 are exempt.

Also from the 1st of May 2008, a minimum of Code Level 3 is required for all new housing promoted or supported by the Welsh Assembly Government or their sponsored bodies and from 2nd June 2008, Code Level 3 is required for all new self-contained social housing in Northern Ireland. The Code does not apply in Scotland.

For further information on this please visit the Communities and Local Government (CLG) website where you will find frequently asked questions and further information.

For further information on how to download and complete a copy of the nil-rated certificate please click here.

In April 2007, the Code replaced Ecohomes for the assessment of new housing in England. The Code is an environmental assessment method for new homes based upon BRE Global's Ecohomes and contains mandatory performance levels in 7 key areas. 

The Code aims to protect the environment by providing guidance on the construction of high performance homes built with sustainability in mind. BRE Global and CLG have worked closely together to ensure that the Code meets the latest regulatory requirements and addresses issues that emerged from an earlier industry-wide consultation.

Scope and Scoring

Many housebuilders who have used Ecohomes will find the credit system of the Code familiar. Users will notice that there are new mandatory minimum levels of performance that have been introduced across 7 key issues:

  • Energy efficiency/CO2
  • Water efficiency
  • Surface water management
  • Site waste management
  • Household waste management
  • Use of materials
  • Lifetime homes (applies to Code Level 6 only)

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 the ‘flexible' standards. 

Compliance

Assessments are carried out in two phases:

  1. An initial assessment and interim certification is carried out at the design stage. This is based on design drawings, specifications and commitments which results in interim certificate of compliance.
  2. Final assessment and certification is carried out after construction. Based on the design stage review, this includes a confirmation of compliance including site records and visual inspection.

Code Assessors

Please visit one of the pages below if you are interested in :