The Future Homes Standard – Changes in the building regulations

The Future Homes Standard is a relatively new piece of legislation which became law following an extensive consultation period carried out by the government in 2020/21.

The new Future Homes Standard should ensure that all new homes built from 2025 will produce 75%-80% less carbon emissions than homes delivered under current regulations. The regulations, some of which will be subject to further consultation, will come into force in 2025.

The purpose of the Standard is to reduce the carbon emissions of new homes. To achieve this reduction in emissions, the Future Homes Standard will require new homes to be built with significantly higher levels of energy efficiency. This will be achieved through a combination of measures, including:

• Improved insulation: Homes will need to have higher levels of insulation in the walls, floors, and roofs, to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency.
• More efficient heating systems: New homes will need to be fitted with low-carbon heating systems, such as air source heat pumps or ground source heat pumps, rather than gas boilers.
• Better windows and doors: Homes will need to have windows and doors with improved thermal performance, to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency.
• Solar panels: Homes will need to have solar panels or other low-carbon technologies installed to generate electricity.

The Future Homes Standard will also require new homes to be fitted with smart meters, which will allow homeowners to monitor and control their energy usage more effectively.

Overall, the aim of the Future Homes Standard is to help the UK meet its carbon reduction targets and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. It is expected that the Standard will lead to the construction of homes that are cheaper to run and more comfortable to live in.

Did you know, that to help businesses with reducing their Carbon Emissions NatWest are offering a Free Carbon Planner Tool? To access the planner please click the link below.

https://www.natwest.com/business/green-banking/carbon-planner.html