Structure of the Act Part 3 – Other Provisions General
798.This Chapter provides for the introduction of mandatory sustainability rating for new homes in England and Wales. This will be information in the form of either a certificate showing the results of assessment against sustainability standards, or a statement that there is no certificate because no assessment has been made. Sustainability standards already exist in the Code for Sustainable Homes (“the Code”). Since April 2007, the Code has operated on a voluntary basis in England only. The purpose of sustainability standards is to improve the sustainability of new homes during both the construction and the lifetime of the home.
799.The Chapter includes provision for extension of the provisions to conversions of existing buildings and to non-residential properties, although there are no present proposals to use those powers.
800.The Chapter applies to England and Wales. Any power to make delegated legislation under the Chapter is to be exercised by the appropriate national authority: the Secretary of State in relation to England, and the Welsh Ministers in relation to Wales.