Today (16th April 2025) the BRE have released BREEAM New Construction: Residential V.6.1 (UKNCR V6.1).
UKNCR V6.1 will now supersede HQM V6 as the current BREEAM assessment for new homes in the UK. Should you have an active new construction residential project with Element Sustainability, this will remain on the HQM version it was registered with.
The update focuses on delivering a greater recognition and credibility for domestic new construction through integrating with BREEAM and streamlining the certification process. The majority of issues have remained consistent with HQM V6 with some minor changes noted for evidence requirements and definitions. However, significant changes are noted to the following two issues.
Issue 4.2 – Natural Light
Previously referred to as daylighting in HQM, the issue is now assessed using the target illuminance metric rather than the previous daylight factor metric and bedrooms are now to be considered within the assessment.
A new direct sunlight metric has been introduced which updates the natural light methodology in line with current best practice.
Issue 6.2 – Building life cycle assessment
Previously referred to as environmental impact of materials, the new methodology includes calculations and reporting of LCA and embodied carbon at building level during concept design, technical design, and post-construction stage. This allows for more credits to be achieved for the issue if undertaken at an earlier stage in the design and post-construction programme (RIBA stage 2, 4 and 6).
Should you have any queries regarding UKNCR V6.1 please do not hesitate to get in touch. Element Sustainability are experienced, qualified HQM and BREEAM assessors and can certify your scheme.
