While headline changes such as the end of gas boilers and mandatory solar PV have drawn most of the attention, the Future Homes Standard will affect almost every aspect of residential design and construction. Having recently delivered presentations on the new regulations to developers and housebuilders across the UK, Whitecode Consulting has seen strong interest in what these changes mean in practice and how organisations should prepare.
Phased developments will require careful planning
Transitional arrangements are changing significantly. Previously, housebuilders and developers could secure approval for a scheme and build later phases under the same regulations for years. That’s no longer possible. For non-high-rise residential buildings, applications under current regulations must be submitted by March 2027. Any plots not commenced by March 2028 are required to comply with the FHS. High-risk buildings have different dates, with transitional arrangements running until September 2028. Developers with phased schemes need to review construction programmes and site sequencing now to avoid redesigns.
Solar PV is no longer optional
New homes will need solar PV as part of a new Part L requirement. Compliance now depends on actual energy output, not just system size, roof orientation, pitch, shading and available space all affect calculations. Many schemes will need around 45% more PV generation than before.
Heat pump performance matters more than ever
Installing an air source heat pump won’t automatically ensure compliance. Seasonal performance, distribution losses and network efficiency all matter, particularly for communal heating systems, where decisions need to be made early in design.
A new approach to energy modelling is coming
SAP will eventually be replaced by the Home Energy Model (HEM), though it isn’t ready yet. SAP 10.3 is the interim solution. HEM will bring more detailed compliance assessments, including improved occupancy assumptions and regional weather data.
Ventilation can no longer be an afterthought
Part F changes mean ventilation performance is now more tightly controlled and must be considered early, alongside heating and energy strategies.
