Abolishing low-carbon standard would trim new home costs by £50k, say Tories
Summary
The Conservatives have proposed abolishing the Future Homes Standard and replacing the current developer contribution system with a single levy, arguing this could reduce the cost of new homes. The article notes that the Future Homes Standard is due to tighten building regulations in England from 24 March next year, while industry voices warn that any deregulation must not weaken housing, safety or environmental standards.
Why it matters
Residential surveyors may need to track changes to building regulations and developer funding mechanisms because these can affect new-build specifications, valuations and marketability. The proposed shift could also influence energy efficiency expectations and the extent of future retrofit requirements.
Key points
- Conservatives say scrapping the Future Homes Standard could cut new home costs by up to £50,000.
- They also propose replacing Community Infrastructure Levy and Section 106 with a single developer levy.
- The Future Homes Standard is intended to improve energy efficiency, low-carbon heating and onsite renewables in new homes in England.
- The standard is due to come into force on 24 March next year, with transitional arrangements for projects already underway.
- The Federation of Master Builders warned that deregulation should not weaken safety, housing or environmental standards.
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