The Code for Sustainable Homes

The simplest way to view the role of the Code For Sustainable Homes (CFSH) is the residential equivalent of the BREEAM commercial buildings standards. And, like BREEAM, it was created to minimise the environmental impact of buildings. Code compliance is now compulsory from September 2010 up to Level 3. This standard is scheduled to progressively increase in-line with the Government's strategy to improve energy efficiency. 

What's in it for me?

Adherence to the Code (as opposed to lower, Building Regulation standards) sets you apart from your competitors as evidence that you produce higher quality homes. What's more, with ever increasing energy prices and house-buyers examining the running costs of their new homes, you're finished building is an attractive alternative to any non-Code housing stock.

How does the Code work?

The Code examines the building's performance across nine design categories including energy/CO2,  pollution and materials. These are then graded according to strict criteria, resulting in an overall rating for the home from one star (which exceeds Building Regulation Standards) to six stars which is a zero carbon home and the highest award achievable. Evaluation is carried out by specially trained and accredited independent assessors such as Melin Energy. The appraisal is then sent to BRE (The Building Research Establishment) for quality control before the appropriate certification is issued for your building.