With the Code for Sustainable Homes now mandatory for homes built with funding from the Housing Corporation or on English Partnerships land, NHBC has launched a course designed to help builders and developers come to grips with it.

Whilst many in the industry have become familiar with the EcoHomes ratings systems the Code sets out requirements in a very different way, with many mandatory requirements which must be met even for the lowest Code ratings. The highest Code rating available is Code level six - a zero carbon home - and the Government has tasked the industry to ensure all new construction is zero carbon by 2016.


NHBC's series of one-day courses aim to give practical guidance and advice in managing the transition to the new Code.

Rob Lockey, NHBC's Training Services manager, said: "It is an essential requirement that those who design and specify new and renovated homes adopt simple, cost-effective measures from the outset in order to achieve the highest possible ratings.

"This course focuses on the new national assessment standard, how this compares with existing EcoHomes assessments and how these new standards and improved specifications can be achieved."

(CL)