Government introduces star ratings in Code for Sustainable Homes

Building a greener future: towards zero carbon development, sets out the government’s strategy for ensuring new housing is built to standards that will reduce carbon emissions. Launched on 13 December 2006, it provides a framework for progressively tightening the Building Regulations up to 2016 to increase energy efficiency and includes the publication of a Code for Sustainable Homes.

This Code will aim to increase the environmental sustainability of new houses and give homeowners better information about the green credentials of their property. It sets out a star rating of one to six (six being the most sustainable) and can be applied to all new homes. From April 2008, every new home will be required to have a code rating, indicating that it has been assessed and how its performance rates.

Communities secretary Ruth Kelly, says: “This consultation paper sets out the need for action across all areas of housing, from existing stock to new build. The code outlines environmental standards for new homes and I encourage house builders to go further in designing environmentally friendly housing for the future.”

Construction Products Association chief executive, Michael Ankers, says: “The code is an important step forward but we must not forget that the big wins in terms of carbon savings are in existing housing stock. Improving this by 1% each year would save more energy than making the entire housing new build zero carbon.”

• The Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has launched a free advisory service for members on managing environmental issues. Provided by a fully qualified environmental management professional on the ECA staff, the service offers practical advice to members of all sizes on compliance with environmental legislation. It will also assist contractors in meeting the requirements of clients.