44 BUILDING FABRIC


capable of achieving the required FHS U-value of 0.85 W/M2


no when asked and 35 stating they were uncertain.


WORKING BETTER WITH THE SUPPLY CHAIN STAKEHOLDERS In response to these challenges, housebuilders and developers must recognise the evolving sector landscape and proactively engage with experts in their supply chain to identify best practices and solutions ahead of 2025. These collaborative efforts extend beyond the direct stakeholders involved in new build and retrofi t proects to a wider range of professionals. Architects, specifi ers, and key component suppliers play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between existing housing stock and FHS compliance. Leveraging thirdparty expertise during the design stage also allows for thorough and precise specifi cation practices. In turn, this can instil greater confi dence that required thermal performance levels can be met before site works commence. But to make this consultative and collaborative approach a reality, housing sector stakeholders must conduct thorough research into their current supply chain. As a non-negotiable baseline requirement, housebuilders


K, with 65% saying


and developers should assess whether organisations within it can be relied upon for high-quality components. This is especially the case when it comes to window specifi cation, where compliant, high-performance frames may stand to have an outsized effect on whether newbuild or retrofi t proects can meet the FHS’s stricter thermal requirements. The stringent criteria for compliant products in housing construction require a proactive approach means this is a must if potential pitfalls are to be avoided. For instance, certain window systems that claim ‘high performance’ may not necessarily align with the FHS due to external factors such as inadequate building structure surveys, or the removal of existing frames. Engaging experts throughout the building and upgrading process can help identify and address these potential issues.


WILLINGNESS TO ENGAGE Though the fi ndings from EHAs report expresses concerns about readiness when it comes to the FHS, this does not indicate shortcomings or reluctance on the sector’s part. Instead, it simply underlines just how transformative the FHS will be. The pronounced uplifts set out in the standard will undoubtedly lead to diffi culties around what constitutes best


industry practice, especially with these increases required to happen within very compressed timescales. Yet as the 2025 deadline looms, a collaborative approach becomes imperative for achieving the ambitious objectives the FHS sets out. Housebuilders and developers currently stand at a critical juncture, and the proactive measures taken today will shape its ability to meet the challenges and commitments into 2025. To read REHAU’s report ‘Future Homes Standard: Preparing UK housing for 2025,’ please scan the QR code below.


Martin Hitchin is CEO of REHAU UK


WWW.HBDONLINE.CO.UK


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