Code for sustainable homes
The Code for Sustainable Homes
By the year 2016, all new build homes across the UK must be zero carbon. The Code for Sustainable Homes, published by the Department for Communities and Local Government, sets out these recommended incremental energy efficiency targets to help constructors reach this target:
Table 1.2: Code Levels for Mandatory Minimum Standards in CO2 Emissions (Ene 1)
| Code Level | Minimum percentage improvement in Dwelling Emission Rate Over Target Emission Rate |
| Level 1 (Δ) |
0% (Compliance with Part L 2010 only is required) |
| Level 2 (ΔΔ) |
0% (Compliance with Part L 2010 only is required) |
| Level 3 (ΔΔΔ) |
0% (Compliance with Part L 2010 only is required) |
| Level 4 (ΔΔΔΔ) |
25% |
| Level 5 (ΔΔΔΔΔ) |
100% |
| Level 6 (ΔΔΔΔΔΔ) |
Net Zero CO2 Emissions |
Source: Code for Sustainable Homes: Technical Guide, November 2010, Page 12
The 2010 editions of Part L of the Building Regulations (England and Wales) (Conservation of fuel and power) and Part F (Means of ventilation), which came into effect in October 2010 require that all homes be 25% more energy efficient than the previous regulations. It is expected that Levels 4, 5 & 6 will be incorporated into the national building regulations in England and Wales between now and 2016.
For further information visit www.planningportal.gov.uk.
The Best Practice Standards, published by the Energy Saving Trust, also offer practical advice to ensure that the build quality of new homes meets government targets.