What is Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH)?
Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) is a credit-based assessment of a new residential dwelling and sets out a method for sustainable building that far exceeds the requirements of standard Building Regulations.
Since 26th March 2015 Code for Sustainable Homes is no longer an applicable standard on newly submitted applications, however English Planning Officers can insist on CSH for existing sites. Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) was never adopted in Scotland and was completely abolished in Wales, including existing sites, in 2014.
If you are working on a CSH assessment, there are different levels depending on the targets set by your local planning authority which range from Level 3 to 6. Usually you will be expected to achieve Level 4.
Credits are awarded to a development for meeting guidance which covers a varied list of sustainable topics. Energy, Water, Materials, Surface Run-Off, Waste, Pollution, Health and Wellbeing, Management and Ecology are all covered in this detailed assessment.
There is a lot of evidence to collect from various sources as the building work progresses. Remember that much of this is the responsibility of the developer – the role of the CSH assessor is to collate the data, ensure it complies and recommend which credits are the most appropriate to aim for on your site.
Top Tips for Code for Sustainable Homes
Not getting an assessor on-board early can cost you Credits that could have been cheaper and more commercially viable to achieve.
Some sections of CSH make more of an impact to the end result than others. Focusing on these credits will make your life easier.
Achieve easy credits, for example Daylight calculations, preferably while window sizes can still be altered.
A Code for Sustainable Homes certificate is generally required before occupancy.
The Energist Approach
We will work as an extension to your team to review your plans, planning conditions, specification and liaise directly with your Planning Officer, Building Control Officer, suppliers and specification providers (if you would like us to).
Your Code for Sustainable Homes reports and certificates will be sent to you within your specified deadlines.