The government has confirmed that both Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP 10.3) and the Home Energy Model (HEM) will be used to calculate compliance with the Future Homes Standard (FHS) as part of a phased transition for newbuild homes.
When the Future Homes Standard consultation launched in 2023, it was expected that the HEM – with a tailored Future Homes Standard wrapper – would be the sole compliance tool. However, following feedback from industry the government has opted to allow a new updated SAP 10.3 version to be used as an interim methodology as part of a phased transition. It will feature a new notional dwelling, updated carbon and primary energy factors, and refinements to the current SAP 10 to support compliance with the Future Homes Standard.
Elmhurst has been closely involved in the discussions with both the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).
Elmhurst’s New Build Residential Manager, Jason Hewins, said:
We are pleased that government has now confirmed the methodologies to be used for calculating compliance with the Future Homes Standard. This long-awaited clarity is crucial – not just for Elmhurst, but for the whole industry – as it allows us to move forward with confidence.
We will be progressing development of our software (both SAP 10.3 and HEM), releasing tailored training, and providing clear, accurate guidance to our members and clients. As an independent and trusted accreditation scheme we are committed to supporting assessors, builders, and wider stakeholders through this period of change.
For more on the Future Homes Standard, visit InstallerSHOW 2025 on 24-26 June at the NEC in Birmingham. Register for your FREE ticket here – parking is free too, sponsored by Amazon Business.
