Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH)

The Code became operational in England in April 2007 and is enforced through the Planning and Building Control departments of Local Authorities or through the Environmental Agency. The implementation of the Code is managed by BRE Global under contract to the Department for Communities and Local Government, further information on this can be found at www.communities.gov.uk/thecode . Plots can only be registered for assessment by an individual or organisation that has undergone suitable training, passed the required examinations and has a current license.

The CSH covers 9 main categories for sustainable design and construction:

  1. Energy and CO2 Emissions
  2. Water
  3. Materials
  4. Surface Water Run Off
  5. WasteE
  6. Pollution
  7. Health and Wellbeing
  8. Management
  9. Ecology

There are sub-divisions of each of these categories some of which have mandatory requirements and some have optional choices to achieve credit points giving an over all score and Code rating.

As a Licensed Assessor for The Code for Sustainable Homes (Registration Number CONRI-PW38 ) Philip Wood can register plots with the BRE, carry out Design Stage and Post Construction Assessments and issue Code Compliant Certification which would enable clients to discharge relevant planning conditions. Due to the complexity and diversity of the CSH clients may require advice and guidance as to how to meet code requirements, which credits it is best to aim for and instruction as to what evidence must be provided. Involving Constructright from the earliest design stage can identify the easiest and most cost effective way to achieve the over all desired Code rating.