Understanding the Code for Sustainable Homes

The Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) became operational in England in April 2007 and a Code rating for new build homes became mandatory from 1 May 2008 (though developments where notice or plans were received by a local authority prior to 1 May 2008 are exempt).

This training day provides an introduction to the Code for Sustainable Homes with a particular focus on the energy credits that can be assessed using NHER Plan Assessor software. It includes exercises using the software to identify ways of achieving the CO2 emissions requirements of the intermediate Levels of the CSH (Levels 3, 4 and 5), with examples of what is typically required to achieve these levels, and the credits for low and zero carbon technologies.

It will also cover the latest position regarding the evolving definition of a ‘zero carbon home’ and the proposals for updating the CSH in line with the new Part L1A of the Building Regulations that are expected to be introduced in October 2010.

This is a one day course. We will not issue CPD certificates and attendees should self-certify, but as a guide this should account for between 4 and 6 hours CPD.

Who should attend

To qualify as a CSH assessor you need to undertake 3 days training and pass a technical exam.  This course is presented by an expert CSH trainer and assessor and is ideal for anyone who is considering CSH training or who just needs to have an understanding as to how it works and how it may develop in future.  (Please note that purchase of this one day training course does not contribute to a full CSH course or cover any of the assessment costs.)

On the day you will cover the following:

• A basic introduction to the CSH – how it works, the key issues that arise in practice, the definition of the six Levels of the CSH with respect to CO2 emissions, etc.
• What is required to achieve levels 3, 4, 5 of the CSH in terms of the typical specifications required for energy efficiency and low carbon energy systems.
• Information to give you an understanding of the constraints on the types of renewable energy system that can be used, and the other additional requirements (e.g. HLP < 0.08) for Level 6.
• Use of NHER Plan Assessor to confirm that the design of a dwelling will achieve CSH standards with respect to energy and CO2 emissions (focusing in particular on Ene 1 and Ene 7).
• To discuss the alternative ways that may be used to define ‘zero carbon homes’ and how and why these differ.
• To provide up-to-date information on the likely changes to the CSH in 2010.

CPD Hours: 4 hours (see above)

This one-day course costs £75+VAT.