Future Homes Standard 2025 | Regulation Made Simple
Posted by Skirting World on 2nd Jan 2025
Future Homes Standard 2025: What You Need to Know
The Future Homes Standard comes into effect in 2025, requiring new homes to produce 75-80% less carbon emissions than current standards. This means significant changes for everyone in the building trade and homeowners.
Understanding the Changes
In 2025 (the exact date is not established yet), all new homes must meet strict standards for energy efficiency and carbon emissions. This means major changes to how we build and what materials we use.
Key Changes
Building Fabric
Walls, floors, and roofs must be better insulated. Windows and doors need to meet higher standards for heat retention.
Heating Systems
Gas boilers won't be allowed in new homes. Heat pumps or other low-carbon heating systems will be required.
Ventilation
Better ventilation systems needed to maintain air quality in more airtight homes.
Timeline
- Going into 2025: Get ready for the changes. Training and certification available.
- 2025: Full standard takes effect at some point in 2025.
Note: The exact date of implementation in 2025 has not yet been confirmed. Stakeholders are advised to monitor government updates for clarification.
- After 2025: Ongoing improvements and updates likely.
Information for Tradespeople
For Carpenters and Joiners
For Plumbers
For Electricians
Addressing Workforce Challenges
The transition to the Future Homes Standard presents significant challenges in training and workforce availability. Key areas to address include:
- Heat Pump Installers: Increased demand requires large-scale training and certification programmes.
- Ventilation Specialists: Upskilling tradespeople to design, install, and maintain MVHR systems.
- Industry Support: Government and industry bodies are offering grants, apprenticeships, and courses to address the skills gap.
Information for Homeowners
What This Means for You
Benefits
- Lower energy bills (50-70% less)
- Better temperature control
- Improved air quality
- More comfortable home
- Lower carbon footprint
Changes You'll Notice
- Different heating system (likely heat pump)
- Mechanical ventilation system
- Better insulated walls and windows
- Smart heating controls
Running Your New Home
Homes built to the new standard will work differently from older properties:
- Heating runs at lower temperatures but more constantly
- Ventilation system needs regular filter changes
- Smart controls help optimise energy use
- Less maintenance needed for heating system
Retrofitting Existing Homes
While the Future Homes Standard applies to new builds, retrofitting existing homes is critical for achieving the UK's net-zero goals. Key retrofitting strategies include:
- Upgrading insulation in walls, floors, and roofs.
- Replacing old gas boilers with heat pumps.
- Installing double or triple glazing.
Interior Trims and Building Performance
While the Future Homes Standard doesn't specifically regulate interior trims, these components play a crucial role in achieving its airtightness and thermal performance requirements. Understanding how to properly install and integrate interior trims is essential for meeting the new standards.
Interior trims like skirting boards, architraves, and window boards are often the final line of defence in maintaining a building's airtight envelope. Proper installation is crucial for overall building performance.
Best Practice Tips
- Always consider the whole building approach - trims are part of the larger airtightness strategy
- Use appropriate materials and fixings for each situation
Materials and Methods
Building Fabric Requirements
| Element | Requirement | What This Means |
|---|---|---|
| Walls | Better insulation | Thicker walls or new materials needed |
| Windows | Triple glazing standard | Better frames and installation needed |
| Doors | Enhanced insulation | New types of doors and careful fitting |
| Floors | More insulation | Changes to foundation design |
Heating Systems
Air Source Heat Pumps
Most common solution for new homes. Works like a refrigerator in reverse to heat your home.
Ground Source Heat Pumps
More expensive to install but very efficient. Needs garden space for ground loops.
Renewable Energy Systems
While solar PV panels and battery storage are highly recommended for energy efficiency and reducing grid dependency, they are not currently mandatory under the Future Homes Standard. However, their inclusion supports long-term sustainability and cost savings.
Other Technologies
District heating and other solutions may be suitable in some areas.
Costs and Funding
Cost Implications
Initial Costs
New homes will cost more to build initially, but running costs will be much lower.
- Better materials cost more
- Heat pumps more expensive than boilers
- More complex ventilation systems
Running Costs
Energy bills typically 50-70% lower than current homes:
- Much less energy needed for heating
- Better temperature control
- Lower maintenance costs
- More stable indoor environment
Property Value
Homes built to the new standard should maintain good value:
- Future-proofed against energy price rises
- Meet upcoming regulations
- Better living environment
- Lower running costs attractive to buyers
Available Funding
Getting Ready for the Changes
For Tradespeople
Start Now
- Look into training courses
- Update your qualifications
- Learn about new materials
- Network with suppliers
Prepare Your Business
- Plan for new equipment needs
- Consider additional training
- Update marketing materials
- Build relationships with suppliers
For Homeowners
If Buying a New Home
- Understand the new systems
- Ask about running costs
- Check what's included
- Learn about maintenance needs
Living in a New Home
- Learn to use the controls
- Understand maintenance needs
- Keep documentation safe
- Know who to contact for help
Further Information
Useful Contacts
For Tradespeople
- Industry certification bodies
- Training providers
- Trade associations
- Building control
For Homeowners
- Energy Saving Trust
- Citizens Advice
- Local authority housing department
- Home energy assessors