EcoHomes XB aims to encourge greener refurbishment and could be mandatory within two years
BRE has announced the launch of an environmental standard for existing housing stock.
EcoHomes XB has been designed specifically to help housing associations and local authorities plan and measure the benefits of improvement to their housing stock.
David Strong, BRE Environment's managing director said: "Reducing the environment impact of the existing housing stock is a vitally important issue."
Currently assessments under EcoHomes XB are for the guidance of social landlords and are not yet mandatory requirements for housing associations.
Jon Rouse, chief executive of the Housing Corporation said: "Although currently a voluntary measure, EcoHomes XB has the potential to support environmental improvements across all 4m existing homes owned and managed by housing associations and local authorities."
