The Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) was launched in April 2007 and since the 1st May 2008, a rating against the code has been mandatory for all sites granted planning after this date. Currently a ‘Nil’ rated certificate can be obtained free of charge, however local housing associations are starting to demand a mandatory code level 3 for their affordable housing. Over time, the government plan to implement mandatory levels for all new build developments, and increase that mandatory level up to the planned 2016 code level 6 ‘Zero Carbon’ target. It is also expected that consumer education will mean buyers actively seeking to purchase a home with a good rating.

Chiltern Dynamics is able to offer CSH Assessment services through sister company TRADA Technology. Their Construction Services team includes qualified and licensed assessors who are knowledgeable, not only in relation to the code, but in many other aspects of building and building design, including: timber frame design detail evaluations, onsite quality assessments, defects and remedial consultancy and training courses.

Their aim is not just to provide an assessment and rating based on submitted data, but to help the client achieve their aspirations. Whether the design and assessment is to satisfy local authority social housing requirements, or to construct an exemplar development of highly efficient and environmentally conscious buildings, the Construction Services Team will be able to deliver to your expectations.  

The assessment itself consists of two stages:

1. Pre assessment, is conducted at the design stage, and is about understanding how the particular dwelling or site is to achieve the desired rating. The design of the building envelope, energy use, air tightness,  carbon emissions from heating, the use of space, lighting, acoustic performance, environmental impacts of the construction materials and may other elements are all reviewed to produce a design and specification that is able to meet the required code level.
2. Post construction stage, is conducted during the construction process and is aimed at ensuring the design is transferred into reality and covers all aspects of the construction process. In very large phased developments it is likely that the pre and post assessments are an ongoing process as more of the development is completed. Having the Construction Services Team involved with this process from start to finish, as well as providing additional services such as acoustic, thermal and air tightness testing, ensures continuous and constant backup is provided to the client and ensuring that the finished dwellings are of the highest quality.