Frequently Asked Questions

 

Which do I need – Code for Sustainable Homes or Ecohomes assessment?

For new dwellings in England and Wales – a Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH).
For refurbishments and some conversions in England, Wales and Scotland and also for new dwellings in Scotland.
 

Do I have to have a Code for Sustainable Homes assessment?

It became manadatory from May 2008 to assess all new dwellings against the Code. If a dwelling is not assessed it can be awarded a nil rated certificate showing that it has not been assessed and therefore can not be rated – this certificate is free and must be included in the Home Information Pack. Having a Code rating not only demonstrates the environmental credentials of the dwelling but may also enable you to sell the house more easily.
 

What about social housing?

In England all new social housing must be built to a minimum Code level 3. A code Level 3 rating is required for all new housing promoted or supported by the Welsh Assembly Governement or Assembly Government sponsored bodies.  

 

How much will it all cost?

This depends on a number of factors, particularly the Code level being sought, the location of the development in terms of current land usage and flood risk and the type of dwelling (detached, terraced etc.). Studies have been conducted into the additional cost of building a Code level dwelling compared to one that only satisfies Building Regulations and we can help explain these to you. Overall the costs break down into three areas

1. the cost of actually building to the higher specification required by the Code e.g. extra insulation

2. the cost of having the Code assessment carried out and the extra time taken to collect the evidence required

3. the cost of any extra assessments and reports required to comply with the Code e.g. Flood Risk assessment, airtightness testing.

Rest assured that Proport Eco-Services will work with you to achieve best value so that you fulfill your aims whilst keeping costs down.

 

I have no idea where to start what should I do?

You’re not alone. We have helped numerous individuals and companies just like yourself. Contact us and we can help you every step of the way. Our comprehensive service provides everything you need regarding the Code for Sustainable Homes or Ecohomes assessments, right through from planning applications to issuing the final certificate.
 

Does it mean I will have to install solar panels or a wind turbine?

Not at all. It is perfectly feasible to achieve Code Level 3 without any solar panels (for water heating or electricity generation) or a wind turbine. We can advise on what systems are best suited to your particular situation and achieving the Code level. For higher Code Levels it will become more necessary to install low or zero carbon technology – particularly as we move towards 2016 and the construction of ‘zero carbon homes’.

 

 

Proport Eco-Services – Code for Sustainable Homes and Ecohomes Hungerford, ThamesValley, M4 corridor and surrounding areas