This guide aims to provide general guidance on the concept and use of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) to aid management of surface water in housing developments

The guide discusses the selection and design of piled foundations, with reference to the relevant design codes, standards and guidance which were current at the time of publication. The design of efficient foundations for low rise housing in the UK is also discussed in a more general sense.

This guide, specifically intended for the smaller builder, provides an introduction to water efficiency. It outlines the standards being encouraged by the Code for Sustainable Homes, the Building Regulations and the Water Efficiency Calculator for New Dwellings.

This report can assist designers, housebuilders, building control practitioners, fire and rescue service personnel and others in designing or assessing proposed designs for open plan flats.

This review assesses the current state of knowledge on indoor air quality in energy efficient, airtight houses in the UK and elsewhere in the world.

This Compendium is the first synthesis of international activity in this field, providing a unique snapshot of how 15 different countries are demonstrating leadership in low carbon technology, culture change, policy development and change management.

This guide brings together the experiences of those who have already got to grips with airtightness, for the benefit of others and provides design tips and guidance on common air leakage paths.

This guide helps developers get to grips with the Code by distilling the experience gained from a large number of Code assessments and advises designers and builders on a strategic way through.

This guide explains simply the background to zero carbon and summarises the Government’s current proposals. This important publication explains the concept of zero carbon and outlines the current CLG consultation on its definition.

An introductory guide to these systems which are likely to become increasingly common in the future as we head towards zero carbon.

Posing the question ‘why return to lime-based mortars?’ this guide looks at the advantages of such mortars over cement-based mortars and considers best usage as well as limitations.

This publication considers the practical, environmental and economic effects of The Merton Rule and reviews the effectiveness of achieving CO2 reductions through the use of the planning system.

Using examples to illustrate problems that have arisen with innovative forms of construction, this review identifies solutions as well as exploring some of the reasons for the problems and issues that have occurred as a result.

This extensive market research study involves consumer research focusing on ascertaining attitudes towards zero carbon issues and identifying levels of understanding along with thoughts and feelings on the potential impact zero carbon homes may have on lifestyles.

This comprehensive guide and accompanying templates provides detailed background information and procurement guidance, explaining the three levels of site waste management practice that are relevant to different types of contract.

This research assesses the 11 types of technology most appropriate for new developments, including biomass, solar, photovoltaic, air source heat pump and fuel cell technologies. It examines cost-efficiency and carbon saving benefits, with crucial factors like payback periods, seasonal variation and location taken into account.

This research draws heavily on Government data from the Communities and Local Government English House Condition Survey (EHCS) and examines a range of issues including households’ satisfaction with their homes and neighbourhoods and the key factors they consider important when choosing them.

With detailing on cost benefits, analysis on construction practices, reliability, maintenance and interfaces with other systems the research makes important strides in addressing the use of ground source energy.

The use of basements is being increasingly considered as an option by builders and developers. Basements have inherent risks relating to water ingress and load-bearing capacity and the guide is designed to clarify risk management issues in the construction process.

The guide focuses on a range of issues associated with the changing patterns, systems and methods of construction in new homes which have changed the risk profile for lenders traditionally used to dealing with brick and block construction.

The first in a series of findings from the Foundation to tackle the climate change agenda came in the wake of a series of legislative and regulatory initiatives from Government targeting the house-building industry as a key to reducing carbon emissions.

The Foundation’s launch project focuses on the use of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and detailed issues relating to modular and panellised construction alongside other methods of off-site manufacture.

Research carried out by WRc, supported by the NHBC Foundation, British Plastics Federation, Defra and Severn Trent Water to establish the effect of lower flows (due to lower WC flush volumes) on the performance of drainage systems.

NHBC Foundation-funded research for the UK Green Building Council and Zero Carbon Hub exploring consumer reactions to sustainable community infrastructure’, i.e. community heat, water, waste and ICT.

Research carried out by the NHBC Foundation, the BRE Trust, Robust Details Limited and the Association of Consultant Approved Inspectors (ACAI) reviewing current testing methods for acoustic performance.

Summary article detailing NHBC Foundation-funded research, carried out by BRE, which looks at the way in which the construction industry designs houses for longevity.