On 13 December 2006, the Code for Sustainable Homes - a new national standard for sustainable design and construction of new homes was launched. Since April 2007 the developer of any new home in England can choose to be assessed against the Code.

The Code measures the sustainability of a new home against categories of sustainable design, rating the 'whole home' as a complete package. The Code uses a 1 to 6 star rating system to communicate the overall sustainability performance of a new home. The Code sets minimum standards for energy and water use at each level and, within England, replaces the EcoHomes scheme, developed by the Building Research Establishment (BRE).

It will provide valuable information to home buyers, and offer builders a tool with which to differentiate themselves in sustainability terms.

On 16 November 2007 the Government confirmed that it will be proceeding with the implementation of mandatory ratings against the Code for all new homes. On the 27 February 2008 the Government confirmed mandatory rating against the Code will be implemented from 1 May 2008.

For more information please visit the Communities & Local Government website through the link at the top right hand corner of this webpage.