CODE FOR SUSTAINABLE HOMES
Our Top ten tips
1.Start (very) early
Consider Code-related issues as early as possible in the design process, before the site layout is finalised and before you make a planning application. Credits can be achieved more easily for issues such as energy, daylighting, and ecology (amongst others) if measures are integrated into the design from the start. Some really ‘easy’ points can only be gained if actions are taken early enough. If you are aiming for a higher Code Level then this should be communicated to your architect as soon as possible as it may become impossible to adjust the designs to suit the requirements of the Code unless they are designed in from the start. Seek advice from a qualified Code assessor as early as possible to bring them into the design team and ensure that the criteria have been correctly understood.2.Target easy-win credits
Several credits are independent of the design and achievable in all developments e.g. energy-efficient light fittings and a drying line, and will be cost-effective to specify in most developments.3.Enhance ecology and reduce flood risk
Assess site factors (flood risk and ecological values) at an early stage, the baseline for the Code score can then be assessed. Sites of high ecological value or flooding can increase the cost of achieving a Code rating, something that may need to be considered before a site is even purchased. An ecological survey by a qualified ecologist following Code guidelines will still be worthwhile to improve the score for most sites, both Greenfield and previously developed.4.Effective construction and supply chain management
Construction stage measures like monitoring energy and water use and reducing pollution risk can improve your score. This requires preparation so that procedures are in place and the contractor and their workforce are aware of them. It is recommended that any measures expected of the main contractor are assessed and included as part of any tender documentation. Site Waste Management Plan is a mandatory requirement on most projects and so must be given early consideration. Modern Methods of Construction using offsite construction can help make this process easier.5.Reduce water consumption in the planning stages
Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDs) are cost-effective and have potential amenity value through water features, ponds etc. The mandatory requirement to reduce runoff volumes, and not just peak run off rates, is an important one to get right, needs full consideration of infiltration and rainwater harvesting opportunities. Rainwater harvesting can reduce surface water runoff and internal water use, but this needs very careful design to meet the requirements of both.6.Plan the layout to give the space you need
Considering the site layout and unit design from an early stage gives the best opportunity to include space requirements for highly weighted Lifetime Homes credits. It is unlikely that these credits would be obtainable unless your architect has included them as an integral part of their overall design. Design that enables direct access to rear gardens means that garden sheds can be used for cycle storage.7.Consider the environmental impact of your materials
Early consideration of proposed construction materials means that most types of constructions can perform well - there are many equivalent products with lower environmental impact but equally fit for purpose. There is a mandatory requirement for ratings against the Green Guide so a strategy to achieve that is vital.8.Secured by design
Get the recommendations of a police architectural liaison officer or crime prevention design officer to meet Part 2 of the Secured By Design award is a straightforward way to gain extra credits, but this must be done (and documented in writing) before you make a planning application.9.Insulate and improve performance
Design to achieve good sound performance and air tightness and avoid thermal bridges. This involves many of the same principles and can help achieve credits in several different areas. A high thermal performance will help reduce carbon emissions and provide benefits to residents for the full lifetime of the building. It strongly recommended that this information is included in any tender information, it is extremely unlikely that any contractor will include for this work in their price.10.Enhance energy sources
Develop a strategy for low and zero carbon energy technologies, (e.g. renewables and CHP). Most developments will need these technologies to meet Code Level 3 or higher. Mandatory requirements for carbon dioxide emissions are expensive or impractical to achieve unless integration is planned from the start. These technologies can often consume more space or impose other restrictions on the overall design. Discussing options and their implications is essential as early in the design process as possible.For more information about our services and how we can help you please contact us