Following an extensive consultation with leading players in the house building industry BRE’s national quality mark for new housing – the Home Quality Mark (HQM)- is now open for registrations.
Designed to transform the way consumers choose the homes they buy and rent and allow house builders to differentiate themselves in the marketplace, the full standard for meeting the mark is now available online.
This first HQM beta version has evolved from a technical consultation carried out earlier this year with additional input from a wide variety of stakeholders at over 50 national events including; private and social housing developers, representative organisations, professional bodies, financial sector, legal sector, designers, consultants and also consumers. While it is a fully functioning scheme, industry is being encouraged to provide feedback on their in-use experiences which will be used to inform the next version.
In response to the announcement Gavin White, Product Manager, Marley, said: “We welcome the introduction of the Home Quality Mark to play a part in ensuring new properties provide high levels of quality and sustainability. As a manufacturer, we are encouraged to see elements such as responsible sourcing and durability of products included along with recognition for products which have accompanying Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).
“However, as the standard is voluntary and the need for housing is so acute, we’d welcome incentives to encourage uptake of the scheme by house builders and demand for properties featuring the Home Quality Mark from home owners. For example, it would be good to see insurance and mortgage providers recognise the Home Quality Mark with reduced premiums or a similar endorsement for using recognised single-manufacturer roof systems, with proven performance and durability.
“While the Home Quality Mark covers many elements of a home, it does not take into account the workmanship across the building. This is crucial. The potential for poor workmanship or greater variances in the quality of workmanship has been exacerbated by the skills shortage in construction. As a manufacturer we’re committed to playing a role in tackling this challenge through our range of easy to install and innovative products, free training courses and the provision of the very best technical support and clear product information. Even the highest quality products and systems will deliver poor performance if they are inadequately installed.
“To tackle inconsistencies in the quality of workmanship in another way, we’d also encourage the specification of full roofing systems from reputable roofing manufacturers. Not only does this approach reduce the risks associated with using multiple suppliers and products, but complete systems are often significantly more prescriptive and feature comprehensive supporting information such as NBS, ensuring compliance with current standards and guidelines.
“For the nation to benefit from high quality, long-lasting and efficient homes, it is essential that everyone involved in housebuilding takes responsibility for the finished builds. There is also a significant job to be done by all parties in housebuilding to ensure potential homeowners understand the Home Quality Mark and what it represents. Otherwise, it will not provide any differentiation in the housing market.”
HQM assessment registrations are now open in England (Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will follow) and can be registered through a licensed HQM assessor. HQM registrations are free for the first six months. Licensed HQM assessors can be found on www.greenbooklive.com