Challenges in meeting The Future Homes Standard

Challenges in meeting The Future Homes Standard

The Future Homes Standard is poised to introduce significant changes to the building industry through new regulations aimed at enhancing sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. To better understand the challenges and implications of these new regulations, we surveyed industry professionals to find out how changes to Parts F, L, O and S are impacting projects.

Here we dive into some of our findings and discuss the impact of these changes.

Survey findings on regulation understanding and challenges

The study indicates that 55% of professionals working in architecture and building design have found responding to the new regulations challenging or extremely challenging. Among the changes that have already come into effect, Part O (overheating) and Part S (infrastructure for charging electric vehicles) were particularly challenging, with over 40% of respondents indicating that they had little or no understanding of the new regulations. Part L (conservation of fuel and power) and Part F (ventilation) fared better, but still, close to 30% of respondents expressed similar apprehensions.

Adapting to these changes, a significant proportion of professionals working in architecture and design have had to redesign existing projects to meet the new regulations. This has given rise to concerns over potential project delays and escalating costs for clients.

Concerns and confusion in the industry

With less than a year to go until compliance with The Future Homes Standard comes into force, the results of the survey highlight concerns within the industry regarding the complexity of the new system and the perceived lack of official communication about it. Delays in government consultations on the Standard, including the current one in progress, may have contributed to these concerns and confusion.

The forthcoming election has further increased uncertainty regarding the potential impact of construction and housing legislation on environmental issues and the likelihood of additional regulatory changes.

Need for upskilling and expert support

Following the passage of The Future Homes Standard legislation in 2025, a series of further amendments will apply to all new homes, underscoring the need for the housing industry to rapidly upskill and seek the right expert support to ensure compliance. It is evident that architects, designers, and contractors will require specialised assistance to navigate through this transitional period, mitigate delays, overruns, and financial impact.

Recommendations for industry adaptation

As an experienced building control expert, Adam Dodd, the Operations Director at Harwood Building Control, comments on the impact of the regulation changes on the industry:

“As an industry, we appreciate that changes in regulations are important – it’s vital that we deliver an improved outcome for the environment and new house buyers. The challenge as an industry is upskilling in order to deliver and the fact that any delays always increases the risk of spiralling costs.

“I always recommend partnering with a good and reputable building control provider who has vast knowledge and expertise in all elements of construction, fire safety, statutory legislation, and standards. Our team at Harwood can assist in your preparations for the Future Home Standards, as well as navigate the current and upcoming changes.”

Conclusion: Navigating compliance challenges

The survey highlights the need for the building industry to upskill and obtain the necessary expert support to ensure compliance with The Future Homes Standard. With appropriate guidance and assistance, architects, designers, and contractors can meet the new regulations and deliver an improved outcome for the environment and new homebuyers.