The Code for Sustainable Homes was launched in April 2007.  The Code ranges from Level 1 (the lowest) to level 6 (the highest) as at writing there is only one known Level 6 home (requires an improvement of over 100% and is deemed to be True Zero Carbon) which is sited at the BRE’s Watford base. 

The most popular option (and a requirement for Social Housing) currently is to attain a Level 3 rating which requires an improvement of at least 25% over the SAP rated Dwelling Emission Rate to the Target Emission Rate.

The new Code for Sustainable Homes has been developed by the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) with the Buildings Research Establishment (BRE) and Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA). 

The Code replaced EcoHomes as of April 2007 for new homes in England and will become the standard for Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland as soon as relevant legislation is adopted. 

The Code assesses nine areas of a development including Energy, Water, Materials, Surface Water Run-Off, Waste, Pollution, Health and Well-Being, Management and Ecology.  Each of the dwellings will be assessed individually, unlike EcoHomes which was a whole site assessment. Once built, the dwellings are required to undergo a Post Construction Review.

GreenRock Energy has BRE approved and experienced assessors in the Code for Sustainable Homes and can help you achieve your accreditation.

We can offer:

• A tailored package for your assessment, ranging from the full design review and guidance, to simply completing the assessment
• Pre-assessment checklist
• Cost efficiency for your assessment
• Part L compliance assessments