The Future Homes Standard is part of the UK government’s strategy to achieve net-zero by 2050, focussing on making new homes more energy efficient and reducing their carbon footprint. The publication of the new building regulation Part L for England is expected to be in early 2026, although this date is yet to be confirmed and has been subject to several delays previously.
Whilst we await this announcement for confirmation of the changes being incorporated within the Future Homes Standard, the following uplifts are anticipated:
- A house built to comply with Part L Future Homes Standard building regulations will emit at least 75% less CO2 than a house built in 2019
- A new, more complex energy assessment methodology. Initially an update to SAP10.3, to be replaced by the detailed Home Energy Model in time
- New homes are understood to require low energy/low carbon heat pumps and optimised PV capacity
- Fabric performance largely similar to current Part L 2021 standards. A reduction in notional spec design air permeability from 5.00m3/hm2 down to 4.00m3/hm2 is anticipated
- Fossil fuel systems will no longer be compliant. Full electric strategies only.
Additionally, subject to ongoing consultation, it is expected that Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) will move away from single A-G ratings and instead be presented as multiple ratings which relate to a range of dwelling performance metrics: energy cost, fabric performance, heating system and smart readiness. Additionally, a valid EPC will be required at the point a property is marketed rather than point of sale or rent and the validity period of the EPC expected to be shortened from 10 years.
Once the Future Homes Standard and compliance software is released Element will undertake gap analysis to determine the uplift in specification required to maintain compliance. We will send an update to confirm this. In the meantime, should you have any queries regarding the Future Home Standard and what the updated standard means for your development, please do not hesitate to get in touch.