Research

Aims and objectives of our research programme and how you can take part

The NHBC Foundation research programme

Research to support the house-building sector

Since 2006, the programme has delivered a significant portfolio of research reports and guidance on sustainable homes, risk management and consumer issues. In addition to these topic areas, the Foundation is giving high priority to research which has a bearing on the supply of new homes and work that aims to deliver improved technical guidance for designers and house builders.

How the research programme is formulated

The NHBC Foundation’s Expert Panel helps guide our work and ensures that the right priority topics and research projects are taken forward.

Additions to the research programme are considered by the NHBC Foundation Management Team on a regular basis. If you feel that research is needed in a particular area, please let us know (see Getting Involved). Project selection is weighted towards practical, applied research which aligns with one or more of the Foundation’s objectives shown below.

Objectives of NHBC Foundation research

NHBC Foundation research projects should help meet one or more of the following objectives:

  • An improved understanding of the performance of new homes and their systems
  • More effective advice for homeowners and occupants on the operation of their homes
  • Clarification of robust, technical options and solutions available to designers and house builders
  • More informed debate and action to address issues impacting on national housing supply.

Getting involved

Ideas or Outline Research Proposals for research projects that help meet our objectives are always welcomed. If you have specific research capabilities in the planning, design, construction, occupation or performance of homes, there may be suitable collaborative research project opportunities and we would be interested in hearing from you.

In summary you can:

Please note that the NHBC Foundation reviews all incoming research suggestions (Ideas and Outline Proposals) and then invites Full Research Proposals on topics that emerge as priorities for the programme. Most projects we commission are subject to competitive tendering, but our processes aim to minimise the cost of taking part.