NEW: Video Tutorials for license users.
Welcome to the Code 4 Homes support page. Below you will find a selection of answers to queries you have about the code4homes.com website. Remember you can always contact us if you are unable to find the answer to your problem.
- How do I Register an Account with Code4Homes.com
- What do I need to do if I have forgotten my password
- How many sites can I add to my account?
- How to upload documents.
- How come my site is pending?
- What is Pre-Planning and Post Construction?
- Code Level Explained
- Credits Achieved Explained
- Status Explained.
- How do I use my email account?
- Category Overview Explained
- Category Help
- Energy and Co2 Emission Documents Required.
- Water Documents Required
- Materials Documents Required
- Surface Water Run-Off Documents Required
- Waste Documents Required
- Pollution Documents Required
- Health and Wellbeing Documents Required
- Management Documents Required
- Ecology Documents Required
1.How do I Register an Account with Code4Homes.com?
Registering an account with code4homes is free and easy. Click the Create an Account button at the top of the home page and fill out the basic details. Once you have created an account we will email you with your login details for future use. Now that you’re registered you will be able to add your sites and developments.
2. What do I need to do if I have forgotten my password?
Simply click the forgot password button on the home page and enter your email address and postcode. We will send an email to the account specified with your code4homes login details.
3. How many sites can I add to my account?
Code4homes.com allows you the client to create as many sites as you want in your client area. When you create a site it shall be listed in you site list, waiting for approval. Code4homes shall contact you to discuss your development, your code levels and pricing.
Uploading your documents is easy. First make sure you have added a new site on your account and have had it approved by one of our assessors.
Click the site name in your site listings, to be taken to the category overview page. The Category overview page displays each of the 9 code for sustainable homes sections.
Click on the desired section and begin uploading. You can upload all the required documents at one time or individually over time, just remember to click the submit button at the bottom of the page. Click the view notes button to check the status of the document and for any assessor’s comments.
5. How come my site is pending?
When you add a new site onto your site listings the site automatically starts at a pending state. Once code4homes have contacted you and agreed a price, the status shall change from pending to approved, now you will be able to upload the required documentation.
6. What is Pre-Planning and Post Construction
Code assessors can conduct an initial design stage assessment, recommend a sustainability rating, and issue an interim Code certificate. A final Code certificate of compliance is issued after a post-completion check to verify the rating has taken place.
A design stage assessment may only need to be carried out on each specific environmental issue within any development – not every single home. Post-completion checks will be carried out on a sample basis.
The Code measures the sustainability of a home against nine design categories, rating the ‘whole home’ as a complete package. The design categories are:
Energy and CO2 Emissions
Water
Materials
Surface Water Run-off
Waste
Pollution
Heath and Wellbeing
Management
Ecology
Each category includes a number of environmental issues (see Table 1 in Annex A) which have a potential impact on the environment. The issues can be assessed against a performance target and awarded one or more credits. Performance targets are more demanding than the minimum standard needed to satisfy Building Regulations or other legislation. They represent good or best practice, are technically feasible, and can be delivered by the building industry. More details about how the Code works is set out in Annex A. The Code performance standard is set out in Annex B
Depending on what code level you require, here will display the amount of credits you have received via a percentage score. Once you have received 100% or above on the pre-planning stage you are then eligible to begin on the post construction stage 2, dependent on if you started on pre-planning. There are mandatory sub-categories that must be passed. These will be marked with a (M).
Energy and co2 Emissions
- Dwelling Emission Rate (M)
Water
- Indoor water use (M)
Materials
- Environmental impact of materials (M)
Waste
- Storage of non-recyclable waste and recyclable household waste (M)
- Construction waste management (M)
If all the above conditions are met to a high standard you should receive 100% or above.
There are 3 levels of status,
- Pending
- Approved
- Complete
Pending – This is when you have added a new site, but it has not yet been approved. When a site is in a pending state, you should of received or are awaiting a call from code4homes to discuss pricing.
Approved – This is when you have confirmed your site with code4homes and are now ready to start uploading your code for sustainable homes documentation.
Complete – Once you have completed both pre –planning and post construction stages to a satisfactory level, the site development will be complete. The site will be listed on your account for 1 year and then archived.
10. How do I use my email account?
When you register with code4homes.com you have a email account setup for you, which is used for communication with our code assessors. When you receive new mail you will be sent an email to the email address which you specified when registering. The email system is easy to use, giving you the ability to view new and sent emails and also email us.
11. Category Overview Explained
This section shows a graphic overview of the processes, giving you feedback on how far a particular category is progressing. It uses a simple traffic light colour scheme to show red, amber and eventually green to show compliance with the level required. This means that at the click of a mouse you can see the sites overall achieved rating so far, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
When in any category you will see a small “help ?” text, if you are unsure as to what a particular category requires simply click on the text and it will show you all the requirements relating to that particular category.
13. Energy and Co2 Emission Documents Required.
Dwelling Emission Rate (M)
Design Stage – SAP 2005 Worksheet* for each Energy Type and accompanying list of specifications from an accredited energy assessor/Part L ‘Competent person’
*Full worksheet, dated with energy assessor name, registration number and address of development, prepared at plans approval stage
Copy of plans, elevations and sections as designed and construction details sufficient to check building details
Where Design and Build contracts or similar contractual arrangements mean SAP evidence of intent.
A copy of the Design Stage Part L1A Building Regulations Compliance Checklist showing full compliance for each Energy Type. This evidence must be provided by an accredited energy assessor/Part L ‘Competent person’
Where Design and Build contracts or similar contractual arrangements mean SAP calculations cannot be produced at this stage, the specification can be allowed as evidence of intent.
Copy of outputs of any calculator tools used (e.g. Stamp Duty Land Tax relief tools and Code Energy Calculator Tool), showing:
• Where averaging used: the weighted average percentage improvement of the Dwelling Emission Rate below the Target Emission Rate for each Energy Group, based on Design Stage SAP 2005 data
• Where Level 6 is sought: Additional calculation sheets are required to include the appliances and cooking element. Each home must provide an amount of renewable electricity equal to a specified amount of kWh per m2 of floor space in addition to that required to meet zero carbon in SAP 2005, in order to offset the CO2 due to appliances and cooking
When determining the base case property types for measured improvement DER over TER, copies of utilities location maps (service locations) for mains gas and electricity must be provided clearly showing the location of the site boundaries to demonstrate that the option used is both accurate and reasonable.
Building Fabric
Design Stage – SAP 2005 Worksheet* for each Energy Type and accompanying list of specifications from an accredited energy assessor/Part L ‘Competent person’
*Full SAP worksheet, dated with energy assessor name, registration number where appropriate and address of development, prepared at plans approval stage
AND
Copy of plans, elevations and sections as designed and construction details to check building details
AND
A copy of the ‘Design Stage’ Part L1A Building Regulations Compliance Checklist, showing full compliance for each Energy Type
Where Design and Build or similar contractual arrangements mean SAP calculations cannot be produced at this stage, the specification can be allowed as evidence of intent.
Internal Lighting
Text in specification* or relevant design stage drawings clearly showing the location of all light fittings in all rooms
*or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
AND
Calculation of the percentage of dedicated energy efficient light fittings in all habitable rooms
Where Design and Build contracts or similar contractual arrangements mean detailed drawings are not available at this stage, the specification can be allowed as evidence of intent
Drying Space
Relevant design stage drawings clearly showing:
For internal drying space:
• Location of drying fixings
• Details/location of ventilation provided
For external drying space:
• Location of fixings/footings or posts
AND
Text describing (on drawings or specification*):
• Location and type of internal or external drying fixings/footings or posts
• Confirmation of the minimum length of drying line
*or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Where Design and Build contracts or similar contractual arrangements mean detailed drawings are not available at this stage, the specification can be allowed as evidence of intent
Energy Labelled White Goods
If white goods are to be provided:
Text describing (on drawings or in the specification*):
• Make and model of all white goods to be provided
• A copy of the EU Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme energy rating for all white goods to be provided
• Where washer dryers or tumble dryers will not be provided, a copy of the EU Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme leaflet
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
If no white goods are provided:
• A copy of a leaflet describing the EU Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme. The information should clearly explain what the EU Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme is and how it works
• Text on drawings or in the specification* confirming that leaflets are going to be provided to all dwellings
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
External Lighting
Relevant drawings clearly showing location of all external light fittings
AND
Text describing (on drawings or in specification*) location and type of all external light fittings
*or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code Assessor giving the specific undertaking
Where Design and Build contracts or similar contractual arrangements mean detailed drawings are not available at this stage, the specification can be allowed as evidence of intent
Low or Zero Carbon Technologies
Confirmation that a feasibility study has been carried out by an independent energy specialist to establish the most appropriate LZC energy source for the building/development
AND
Design Stage – SAP 2005 Worksheet* for each Energy Type and accompanying list of specifications from an accredited energy assessor/Part L ‘Competent person’ showing the carbon emissions arising from energy demand with and without LZC technologies
*Full worksheet, dated, SAP assessor name, registration number where appropriate and dwelling address, prepared at plans approval stage
AND
Drawings showing location of LZC equipment in the dwelling, its curtilage and offsite where appropriate.
AND
Text describing (on drawings or in the specification):
• Type and location of LZC equipment in the dwelling
• Type of appliances that use an output from the LZC equipment in the dwelling
For LZC technologies and fuels not currently covered by SAP 2005 and Land Duty Stamp Tax relief tools:
• Manufacturer’s technical data and details or calculations stating:
• The estimated heat or electricity output of the LZC system
• The carbon dioxide emissions resulting both with and without the LZC technology
Where Design and Build contracts or similar contractual arrangements mean detailed drawings are not available at this stage, the specification can be allowed as evidence of intent.
Cycle Storage
Drawings* showing:
• Location, type and size of storage
• Access to cycle storage
• Any security measures
• Details of the proprietary system (if applicable)
AND
Text describing (on drawings or in the specification*):
• Location, type and size of storage
• Access to cycle storage
• Security measures
• Details of the proprietary system (if applicable)
AND
Notes and calculations showing the bedrooms served by the cycle storage and referring to credits awarded
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Home Office
Drawings or specification text* detailing:
– Location of and sufficient space for the home office
– Location of sockets
– Location of telephone points
– That adequate ventilation will be provided
– Confirmation of cable connection or that broadband is available at each address
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor / supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Indoor water use (M)
Drawings or specification text* detailing:
• Location, details and type of appliances / fittings that use water in the dwelling including any specific water reduction equipment with the capacity / flow rate of equipment. This should include confirmation that the hot and cold water system will be designed to avoid the risk of microbial contamination in line with best practice.
• Location, size and details of any rainwater and greywater collection systems in the dwelling
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the assessor giving a specific undertaking
External Water use
Drawings or specification text* detailing:
• Type, size and location of any rainwater collection systems
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor / supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the assessor giving a specific undertaking
15. Materials Documents Required
Environmental impact of materials (M)
Drawings or specification text* detailing:
• Location and area of the elements
• Details of the materials used within the elements
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor /supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Completed Code Mat 1 Calculator Tool, showing building elements at the design stage
The assessor should keep a note in the project file to explain why a bespoke element is used instead of the available rating stated within the Green Guide
Bespoke Green Guide ratings and their associated reference numbers must be provided
Responsible sourcing of materials – basic building elements
Drawings or specification text* detailing:
• The location of elements and materials specified
• Details of the materials specified
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Completed Code Mat 2 Calculator Tool or relevant calculations showing elements at the design stage
For Re-used Materials:
Documentation stating which particular materials within the development will be from re-used materials
Trade information or a letter from the developer is acceptable
For Recycled Materials:
Documentation stating the particular elements within the development that will be using recycled materials
A letter of intent to use suppliers who can provide an EMS certificate (or equivalent) for the recycling process must be provided
For materials certified through the EMS route, a letter of intent to use suppliers who can provide an EMS certificate (or equivalent) for the key process and/or extraction stages of their product must be provided.
Certified timber requires a letter of intent to use suppliers capable of providing certification to the level required for the particular tier claimed. This could be demonstrated by a commitment to use a specific scheme(s)
Responsible sourcing of materials – finishing elements
Drawings or specification text* detailing:
• The location of elements and materials specified
• Details of the materials specified
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Completed Code Mat 3 Calculator Tool or relevant calculations showing elements at the design stage
For Re-used Materials:
Documentation stating which particular materials within the development will be of re-used materials
Trade information or a letter from the developer is acceptable
For Recycled Materials:
Documentation stating the particular elements within the development that will be using recycled materials
A letter of intent to use suppliers who can provide an EMS certificate (or equivalent) for the recycling process must be provided
For materials certified through the EMS route, a letter of intent to use suppliers who can provide an EMS certificate (or equivalent) for the process and/or extraction stages of their product must be provided.
Certified timber requires a letter of intent to use suppliers capable of providing certification to the level required for the particular tier claimed. This could be demonstrated by a commitment to use a specific scheme(s)
16. Surface Water Run-Off Documents Required
Management of surface water run-off from developments
Mandatory Elements
Confirmation of the appointment of an appropriate consultant to carry out the calculations and provide design criteria for all relevant elements.
Copy of the consultants report and Flood Risk Assessment, containing all information necessary to meet the mandatory requirements.
Copies of any drawings and specification text necessary to support the claims made.
Where credits are sought:
Copy of the consultant’s report detailing the design specifications, calculations and drawings to support the additional credits.
Where detailed designs are not available at this stage, the specifications need to clearly state the essential design criteria.
Proposed operation and maintenance plans. (Agreements do not need to be complete at this stage).
Flood Risk
For developments situated in Zone 1
A Flood Risk Assessment (prepared according to good practice guidance as outlined in Development and Flood Risk: A practice guide companion to PPS25) which shows that there is a low risk of flooding from all sources.
For medium (Zone 2) or high (Zone 3) flood risk areas:
A Flood Risk Assessment (prepared according to good practice guidance as outlined in Development and Flood Risk: A practice guide companion to PPS25)
Where applicable
written confirmation from the Environment Agency of the reduction in flood risk category of the site if under the protection of existing/maintained flood defences*.
supporting manufacturer’s data covering details of any flood protection measures for the dwelling.
AND EITHER
Site plans indicating the design flood level, the range of ground levels of the dwellings, car parking areas and site access (lowest to highest), showing that the criteria (finished floor levels of all habitable rooms and access routes being at least 600mm above the design flood level) are met, along with any notes required to explain the function of any areas lying below the design flood level.
OR
Drawings showing the location and details of any flood protection measures for the dwelling or assessment of risk and specification of flood resilient construction.
*Note: There are many defences, owned by third parties, which due to their location act as a defence by default. E.g. motorway and railway embankments, walls. Confirmation that these defences will remain in place for the lifetime of the development is required if a significant risk is predicted
Storage of non-recyclable waste and recyclable household waste (M)
Drawings or specification text* detailing:
• the number of bedrooms
• the location of internal and external storage (where applicable)
• the types and sizes of internal and external storage
• how the storage is accessed
• access arrangements conforming to H6 in AD H
• written justification where it has not been possible to locate bins within 30m of an external door.
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the assessor giving a specific undertaking and all the previously required details
AND EITHER
A letter or other confirmation from the Local Authority describing the type, volume and dimensions of containers that they provide for refuse collection and recycling (where in operation). In the case of
an automated collection system, the Local Authority should confirm the specifications associated with the system: location of inlets, level of separation and extent of the coverage
OR
Where a private recycling scheme operator (using either bins or collection inlets, linked together by pipes) is to be appointed to collect recyclable materials, confirmation of this intention and details of the scheme proposed
Construction waste management (M)
Mandatory Element
A copy of the Site Waste Management Plan or the specification* describing what the Site Waste Management Plan will contain. Details must be in accordance with the relevant guidance as detailed in Checklist Was 2a
*or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
OR
For small developments claiming by default, documentary legal evidence confirming the agreed cost of the development
Using completed and reviewed Site Waste Management Plan:
– where there is a commitment to reduce waste generated on site: a completed copy of Checklist Was.2b and Checklist Was.2d – Checklist Was 2b
– where there is a commitment to divert construction waste from landfill: a completed copy of Checklist Checklist Was.2c and Checklist Was.2d
Composting
Present a completed copy of Checklist 1- Was 1 and text on drawings or in the specification*, describing:
• the location and size of storage
• access to the storage
• that an information booklet will be supplied
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier, a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking or the manufacturers information, for all the above required details.
OR, where applicable:
Details of the communal/community composting scheme indicating:
• distance from dwelling
• management arrangements
• access, location and size of storage prior to taking the mentioned scheme
• details of, the mentioned scheme including opening times and access
• that an information booklet will be supplied
OR, where applicable:
Details of the Local Authority kitchen waste collection scheme
OR, where applicable:
Details of the automated waste collection system
18.Pollution Documents Required
Global warming potential (GWP) of insulants
Completed Checklist Pol 1 showing the proposed insulation materials (or none) for each element and whether they are foamed, use blowing agents or un-foamed (from Table 6.1)
AND
For each element, drawings or specification text* clearly showing the type and location of all insulation materials
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code Assessor giving the specific undertaking
AND
Where insulation materials have been specified, manufacturer’s / installer’s literature (internet sourced specifications are acceptable) for any foamed insulation material or materials installed using blowing agents, confirming that all blowing agents used are either ‘deemed to satisfy’** from Table 6.2 or have a GWP of less than 5
OR
For a Design and Build contract: A specification clause or letter of intent to meet the credit requirements must be provided
NOx emissions
Text describing (on drawings or in specification*):
• Details of the primary and any secondary heating systems and flue type
• Dry NOX levels and/or boiler class of the primary and any secondary heating systems
Where a system has been specified, manufacturer’s literature (internet sourced specifications are acceptable) confirming the dry NOX levels and/or boiler class of the primary and any secondary system
*or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Where NOX averaging is required due to multiple heating systems within dwelling:
Calculation of dry NOX or weighted average NOX as in Calculation Procedures below
SAP 2005 Worksheets (Design Stage)
19.Health and Wellbeing Documents Required
Daylighting
Calculations* required:
• Average daylight factor using the formula provided in the Relevant Definition section (method described in Littlefair (1998) as set out in BS 8206–2) or computer simulation or scale model measurements
• Position of the no-sky line and percentage of area of the working plane that receives direct light from the sky
To check these, the following will be necessary:
Details of:
• The angle of visible sky
• The window glazing
• The room surface areas
Plans and sections showing:
• Room dimensions
• Position and dimensions of windows and other glazed areas
• External buildings and other potential obstructions
Ensure the calculations have been signed off by a member of the design team
Where default values are not used, details from the manufacturer confirming the glass transmission factor and/or room surface reflectance values
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Sound Insulation
Text confirming (on drawings or in the specification*) a commitment to meet the relevant sound insulation performance levels (as outlined in the Assessment Criteria above)
*or a letter of instruction to a contractor or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Where sound testing will be carried out:
• Details of the programme of pre-completion testing to be carried out, including the number of groups and sub-groups.
• Brief details of separating walls/floors and flanking constructions, with evidence of the potential for the constructions to meet the relevant performance standards, e.g. design statement from an acoustic consultant with appropriate expertise in building acoustics, or reference to text in the specification describing these requirements.
• A commitment to carry out remedial works and to re-test to demonstrate the necessary performance standard/s is/are achieved should any of the separating walls or floors fail to meet the required standard for sound insulation when tested for the first time
• Confirmation that the Compliant Test Body which will carry out pre-completion testing is accredited by UKAS or is a member of a scheme that is deemed to be equivalent.
Private space
Drawings or specification text* confirming:
• The number of bedrooms served by the outdoor space
• That the outdoor space meets the minimum size requirements and is located adjacent/close to the dwelling
• That the outdoor space is accessible to wheelchair users with details shown/described of Low or Level thresholds in accordance with BS8300
“Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people – Code of practice”
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the assessor giving a specific undertaking
AND, where a shared outdoor space is provided:
• details of the security/control arrangements for access
Lifetime homes
A completed Lifetime Homes Checklist Hea 4 indicating compliance with all applicable points from 1–16, signed by the developer
20.Management Documents Required
Home User Guide
Where a Home User Guide covering operational issues only will be supplied:
Confirmation in the Specification* that the guide will be:
• Supplied to all dwellings within the development
- Be developed to the required standards (as a minimum including a list of contents showing that the guide will cover all of the issues required in Checklist Man 1 Part 1)
* or a letter from the developer to the Code assessor confirming the specific undertaking
Where a Home User Guide covering operational issues and issues relating to the site and surroundings will be supplied:
As above and including information covered in Checklist Man 1 Part 2
Considerate Constructors Scheme
For Considerate Constructors Scheme:
Specification clause or other confirmation* of commitment from the contractor or developer to comply with:
• The Considerate Constructors Scheme and achieve formal certification under the scheme with either a pass score or a score of 32 points and above
* a letter of instruction/intent from the developer to a contractor or the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
For an alternative scheme:
The independent scheme assessor should complete Checklist Man 2 and provide the assessor with a copy as evidence
NOTE: The Assessor should seek confirmation from the Code Service Provider that an alternative scheme is acceptable prior to formal submission of an assessment
Construction Site Impacts
Specification clause or other confirmation* of commitment from the contractor or developer, demonstrating:
A commitment to meet either, two or more, or four or more, of the items in Checklist Man 3. If available at this stage, this can be demonstrated by a completed copy of Checklist Man 3
* a letter of instruction/intent from the developer to a contractor or the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Security
Specification clause or other confirmation* of commitment, showing:
• That an ALO/CPDA has been or will be appointed to provide advice EARLY in the design stage to ensure that the requirements of Section 2 – Physical Security of Secured by Design – New Homes are met
• That the advice of the ALO/CPDA will be followed
* a letter of instruction to a contractor or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Ecological value of site
Where using the checklist:
Plans of the site and surrounding area prior to development, identifying any features, both built and ecological
AND
Site visit report from the design team/assessor confirming details adequate to meet Checklist Eco 1 (including photographs)
Ecological enhancement
A copy of the ecologist’s report (in the format outlined in the ‘Code for Sustainable Homes Ecology Report Template’) which:
• Clearly outlines the key and additional recommendations
• Confirms that all UK and EU legislation in relation to protected species has been met and recommendations go beyond these requirements
• Confirms that the ecologist meets the requirements set out in the definition of a Suitably Qualified Ecologist
• Confirms that the ecologist made a site visit prior to the commencement of initial site preparation works ideally at RIBA stage B
AND
Specification clause or other confirmation* detailing:
• How the key recommendations and 30% of additional recommendations will be incorporated into the design
• The planting schedule of any species to be incorporated from Suitably Qualified Ecologists recommendations
*drawings or a letter of instruction to a contractor/supplier or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
Protection of ecological features
Site visit report from the design team including photographs confirming ecological features present prior to commencement of construction works/site clearance.
AND
Drawings or specification text* detailing how ecological features will be protected
* or a letter of instruction to a contractor/ supplier or a letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking
AND EITHER
• Plans of the site and boundary identifying ecological features prior to construction
• Written evidence from an appropriate statutory body of any requirement to remove any features for health and safety and/or conservation reasons
• Written confirmation that all EU and UK law with regards to protected species have been adhered to
OR
A copy of the ecologist’s report confirming:
• That they meet the requirements of a Suitably Qualified Ecologist
• The ecological features present (or if low ecological value and no features present)
• Recommendations for protecting all ecological features
Change in ecological value of site
Drawings showing:
• Site layout
• The existing site survey, clearly indicating natural and built features on both the site and land surrounding the site before the proposed development
- Landscape and plot categories (in accordance with the Assessment Methodology) with a list of site areas provided
AND
Copy of the calculations from the assessor showing proposed change in ecological value. (If new planting or species to be added or where actual species/hectare values are being used for the site prior to construction, these can only be counted if based on the advice of a suitably qualified ecologist.)
If the advice of an ecologist is sought, the following must also be provided:
A copy of the ecologist’s report (in format outlined in the Code for Sustainable Homes Ecology Report Template) confirming:
• The ecologist meets the requirements of a Suitably Qualified Ecologist
• The species/hectare of any proposed planting schemes
• The actual species/hectare of existing plots (where relevant) with confirmation that the site visit was made by the ecologist prior to any site preparation works
AND
Text describing (on drawings and in the specification) or illustrations showing how the ecologist’s recommendations for any proposed planting schemes will be implemented
AND EITHER
The planting schedule
OR
A letter of instruction to a contractor/ supplier, or a formal letter from the developer to the Code assessor giving the specific undertaking.
Building footprint
General layout drawings and elevations including dimensions for:
• Each type of dwelling
• All other buildings with permanent foundations, such as bin/cycle stores, garages
• The site plan
AND
Calculation of the building footprint ratio
