Home Quality Mark
BRE launched the basic framework for the Home Quality Mark (HQM) in 2015. Currently the beta version of HQM is available and accepting registrations.
HQM is intended as a new concept, rather than a BREEAM Domestic, and is focused on the home-buyer in contrast to Ecohomes and the Code for Sustainable Homes which focus on the developer (both schemes are no longer relevant, except for existing schemes and those with an existing planning permission).
“The Home Quality Mark seeks to provide clear information from independent experts on a new home's quality. Giving householders clear indications of the overall expected costs to them, how the home will benefit their health and wellbeing and the environmental footprint of living in the home. It hopes to help everyone better understand the quality, performance and attributes of a new build home on a whole life basis”. Find out more at www.homequalitymark.com
Concrete and masonry homes and HQM
Concrete and masonry homes can meet and exceed building regulations, and have a wealth of high performance credentials that are recognised in HQM. Including:
- Flood resilience
- Safety and security
- Air quality
- Noise
- Cost
- Energy reduction
- Renewable energy
- Overheating risk/controlled ventilation
- Responsible ethical materials selection
- Low environmental impacts
- Durability and resilience
- Water efficiency
- Space efficient functional and adaptable.
Concrete, as a sustainable construction material, is well placed to help designers. Concrete and masonry construction can produce cost-effective, locally and responsibly sourced solutions to the highest levels.
At all levels concrete offers the inherent benefits of thermal mass, as well as design flexibility, durability, sound insulation, and fire performance. Used to maximum benefit, these attributes can help to achieve a wide range of benefits under the overall umbrella of sustainable construction.