The Code for Sustainable Homes is the national standard for the sustainable design and construction of new homes in the UK. Developed by the Government alongside the Building Research Establishment (BRE) and Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA), and through consultation with a Senior Steering Group consisting of Government, industry and NGO representatives; the Code aims to reduce our carbon emissions and create homes that are more sustainable. Replacing the EcoHomes scheme, developed by the BRE the code acts as a vehicle for continuous improvement, greater innovation and exemplary achievement in sustainable home building.

The Code assesses a development against nine categories to provide an overall dwelling rating; comprising of optional elements and mandatory elements it enables scope within sustainable design.

The categories are as follows:

1. Energy & Co2
2. Water
3. Materials
4. Surface Water Run-off
5. Waste
6. Pollution
7. Health & Wellbeing
8. Management and Ecology

A star rating from 1 - 6 is employed to illustrate overall sustainability performance. Code assessments are carried out in two phases: the design stage and post construction stage.  

It is mandatory for all new homes to be rated against the Code.

Why use Energy Council?

• Energy Council are one of the most established companies in the UK offering Code, BREEAM and other energy/emission related construction services.
• We are currently successfully carrying out over 200 Code projects across the UK for RSL's, builders, architects and developers.
• Our experience and knowledge of Passivhaus design, thermal bridging, air leakage, thermal modeling and sustainability complements our services.