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director and construction products sector lead at BRE, believes that the public perception of prefabrication is outdated and needs to change.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
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.