BRE Assessment Methodology and certification scheme for modular homes
At Ecobuild in March 2018, BRE is to launch a new product standard for modular and prefabricated homes as part of a bid to reassure buyers.
The new standard is intended to bolster buyers' confidence that modular homes will be built to the highest standards.
In the UK, an estimated 12% of construction takes place off-site, with a market value of £1.5bn. Experts believe that this push towards ‘modern methods of construction’ is needed to improve building quality and increase supply, and that the marked has significant growth potential. So far however, off-site methods have had limited traction in private housing, with the market continuing to prefer traditional methods. Instead, off-site has been favoured for industrial buildings, hotels, social housing, and purpose-built student accommodation.
The evidence that off-site growth is on the way can be found in the government’s ambition for 100,000 new modular homes to be built during the course this parliament. In addition, private firms such as Laing O’Rourke, Berkeley Homes, Pocket Living, and Legal & General Homes have already committed to modular expansion.
While this may indicate that the supply side is preparing itself to meet off-site needs, the critical factor remains convincing the general public of its merits and quality. David Gall, associate director and construction products sector lead at BRE, believes that the public perception of prefabrication is outdated and needs to change.
BRE’s new standard is intended to provide guidance to manufacturers, developers, planners, mortgage lenders, insurers and underwriters, as well as the general public.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Infrastructure that connect the physical and digital domains.
Harnessing robotics and AI in challenging environments
The key to nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering.
BSRIA announces Lisa Ashworth as new CEO
Tasked with furthering BSRIA’s impressive growth ambitions.
Public buildings get half a million energy efficiency boost
£557 million to switch to cleaner heating and save on energy.
CIOB launches pre-election manifesto
Outlining potential future policies for the next government.
Grenfell Tower Inquiry announcement
Phase 2 hearings come to a close and the final report due in September.
Progress from Parts L, F and O: A whitepaper, one year on.
A replicated study to understand the opinion of practitioners.
ECA announces new president 2024
Electrical engineer and business leader Stuart Smith.
A distinct type of countryside that should be celebrated.
Should Part O be extended to existing buildings?
EAC brands heatwave adaptation a missed opportunity.
Definition of Statutory in workplace and facilities management
Established by IWFM, BESA, CIBSE and BSRIA.
Tackling the transition from traditional heating systems
59% lack the necessary information and confidence to switch.
The general election and the construction industry
As PM, Rishi Sunak announces July 4 date for an election.
Eco apprenticeships continue help grow green workforce
A year after being recognised at the King's coronation.
Permitted development rights for agricultural buildings
The changes coming into effect as of May 21, 2024.