More than two thirds (79%) of decision makers in the housing market are not prepared for the Future Homes Standard (FHS), according to a survey commissioned by Rehau. Just over half of respondents indicated that they were ‘somewhat prepared’.
No respondents to Rehau’s survey were aware of a window system capable of meeting the 0.85 W/m²K U-value standard required under the upcoming legislation.
FHS compliance is mandatory from 2025. But Rehau’s survey of 200 decision makers for building products in local authorities, housing associations, social housing and housebuilding found that 79% felt that it would be ‘somewhat challenging’ or ‘very challenging’ to meet the FHS timeline. The statistics are drawn from the systems company’s market readiness report, ‘Future Homes Standard: Preparing UK Housing for 2025’.
“Reaching a point where all new homes produce between 75% and 80% less carbon emissions than previous standards is a huge challenge, though clearly necessary if the UK is to have any chance of achieving net zero by 2050 – a target that is now legally binding,” said Martin Hitchin, Rehau UK’s CEO. “The UK’s position is also concerning because the FHS comes into force in less than two years.
“Our report shows that there is an overriding lack of awareness in the market. No one knew of a window system offering an FHS U-value of 0.85 W/m²K. However, these U-values can be achieved with the right design and specification. Rehau, for example, can deliver exceptional thermal performance without compromising on design or finish.”
To help housing providers get ahead, Martin advised that research, a reliable supply chain, and collaboration with manufacturers like Rehau, is key. He also warned that just because windows are labelled as ‘high-performance’, they still may not meet the full FHS requirements.
“Researching the current market to establish a reliable supply chain for the products you’ll need for a typical development is more important than ever before,” said Martin. “It’s important to collate information and certification from manufacturers like Rehau, which already has several products ahead of the regulatory curve.
“Something we see a lot is supposedly ‘high-performance windows’ failing to meet the requirements set out in the FHS. There are several reasons why high-performance windows that are compliant on paper might fail. Poor surveys that overlook the building structure and removal of existing frames is one area that could lead to errors. It’s important to work with suppliers to help overcome these issues.”
