Code for Sustainable Homes
At AA Projects, we have specialist qualified Code for Sustainable Homes assessors with knowledge of energy performance and environmental matters who can provide advice on all issues relating to the Code.
Background
The Code for Sustainable Homes was launched in December 2006 and is an environmental assessment method for rating and certifying the performance of new homes. The Code is based on the BRE EcoHomes standard. Having a code rating for new homes has been mandatory since 1st May 2008.
The Code for Sustainable Homes sets out six levels of sustainability for new build housing. These levels are indicated by stars. Achieving a standard must be supported by evidence and includes a post construction inspection. Each level includes mandatory requirements for energy performance and water usage together with tradable requirements for other aspects of sustainability.
On energy, the requirements are a percentage reduction in carbon emissions compared with Building Regulations Part L1 (2006) as follows:
| * 10% | **** 44% |
| ** 18% | ***** 100% |
| *** 25% | ****** zero carbon |
Government funding is linked to better environmental performance with a minimum requirement from the Homes and Communities Agency of achieving level 3 with funding priority given to developments achieving a higher Code for Sustainable Homes level.
Benefits of utilising AA Projects
At AA Projects we are pro-active in our approach to achieving the highest code standards for a development, providing not just a Code Assessment but also Consultancy Advice. We do this by:
- Managing sustainability requirements - On a well managed project with early input on sustainability, the additional project costs for aiming to achieve for example a code rating of 3 stars can be reduced from the usual excess of 10% down to 3-5%.
- Practical Application – All our code assessors are dual qualified as Chartered Building Surveyors and Chartered Environmentalists providing expert experience and wider industry knowledge ensuring solutions are practical and providing greater value.
- Innovation – Finding innovative solutions, including where necessary design advice or new product information to ensure decision making is fully informed and best value is achieved.
- Integration – Being part of the design and construction team to ensure predicted points are secured and the desired Code Standard therefore achieved without costly additional works.
We are also able to help with the evidence process and are able to provide complimentary services, for example daylight analysis or site waste management.
For further information contact Richard Murray on 0845 303 2721
