The Future Homes Standard (FHS) is set to change how new homes are built across England. It’s been a long time coming, and while a few details landed differently than expected, the goal is still the same: cutting energy use and carbon emissions in new-build homes.

This is one of the biggest shake-ups building regulations have seen in a generation. So what does it actually mean on site – and who needs to take notice?

In short, if you’re involved in building new homes, this affects how you work. From design and specification through to the systems you install, the products you choose and how they’re fitted. And with tougher Part L requirements in play, it won’t just stop at new builds – extensions and major refurbishments will increasingly feel the impact too.

For trade professionals, getting to grips with what’s been confirmed isn’t just about staying compliant. It’s a chance to get ahead of the curve, add value for customers and put yourself a step ahead of the competition.

What is the Future Homes Standard?

The government has confirmed that new homes built to the Future Homes Standard must achieve around 75–80% lower carbon emissions compared with homes built under the 2013 Building Regulations baseline.  

It focuses on:

• Fabric efficiency: better insulation and thermal performance
• Heating systems: a move to low‑carbon heating, with heat pumps or heat networks effectively becoming the default for new homes
• Solar PV: now a legal requirement for most low‑rise new homes
• Airtightness: reducing uncontrolled heat loss, balancing with effective ventilation
• Energy modelling: a shift from the old SAP model to a new, more accurate Home Energy Model (HEM)

 

 

 

What’s Not Included (Yet)

There’s one key area that the FHS does not affect – for now – and that’s embodied carbon. Embodied carbon is the emissions from materials and construction, and the FHS doesn’t cover this. However, the government has indicated that this will be part of future legislation changes.

 

When will this impact building projects?

Transitional arrangements will protect homes that have genuinely commenced under the current regulations, but only for a limited time. This will be similar to the transitional arrangements when Part L 2021 was implemented, and apply per plot/home rather than the whole site:

• FHS Announced March 2026
• Updated Part L comes into force March 2027
• FHS mandatory for all newly commenced homes from March 2028
• For homes where work has actually commenced (for example foundations, groundworks or drainage) by March 2028, they may be completed to the existing standards

 

How is FHS Different from Current Building Regulations?

Stricter fabric-first requirements - more emphasis is being placed on strong insulation and airtightness, and builds won’t be able to rely on heating systems to compensate for weak fabric. The FHS also promotes a whole-house approach, recognising how insulation, airtightness, and ventilation all interact.

Higher thermal performance across fabric elements, and more focus on how they are installed to reduce thermal bridging and achieve the as-designed performance.

Heat pumps will become the main default, and with them we’ll see the return of hot water cylinders. Heat networks or district heating will be real options in some areas. 

Solar PV will need to be included for most low‑rise new homes, although there is some flexibility where site constraints apply. That’s not going to be a get-out for most cases though.

MVHR will become more common in more airtight homes, as a way to maintain air quality without too much heat loss.

The FHS will replace SAP calculations with the new Home Energy Model (HEM) — a more accurate and dynamic system that models real energy use.  There is a transition period where SAP 10.3 is still used, but we’re now moving towards the Home Energy Model as the long‑term methodology.

 

Retrofit vs New Build: What is Expected to Change for the Trade?

The Future Homes Standard applies to new build homes and brings an updated Part L for new dwellings. Extensions and refurbishments to existing buildings need to comply with Part L – Conservation of Fuel and Power (Existing Buildings) and these are expected to tighten over time too. The benefits of the new standards mean homes that need less energy to run them, reducing fuel bills long term. So even when not mandatory, designing “future-ready” systems can make sense - improving resale value, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Do I need to source different materials and products?

To stay ahead, get familiar with FHS-ready products and systems:

• Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs): These are set to become the go-to heating solution. Understanding correct sizing, system compatibility, and installation requirements will be vital
• Hot water cylinders: Heat pumps require specific cylinders designed to work efficiently with lower flow temperatures. Space considerations for installing/reinstalling cylinders will need to be factored into system designs early on
• Solar PV: in roof options are a more discreet way to include solar for new builds, and can also be installed in an existing roof
• High-performance insulation materials: Familiarity with insulation panels and materials and their performance will be essential to meet the new fabric efficiency targets
• Thermally efficient glazing: Windows and doors will need to meet higher performance standards to prevent thermal bridging and heat loss. Triple glazing isn’t a requirement but for anything other than large, simple windows it may be the easiest route to meet the requirements
• Smart controls: Heating controls that are optimised for low-temperature heat pump systems will be crucial for maximising efficiency and user comfort
• Thermally broken lintels: These help minimise thermal bridging around openings, improving overall energy performance and reducing cold spots that can lead to condensation

• Airtightness and vapour control products: Membranes, tapes, and seals designed to manage moisture and airtightness are becoming essential to meet FHS-level performance standards, as well as loft hatches
• Ventilation: As homes become more airtight, effective ventilation becomes even more essential. Knowledge in specifying and installing MVHR and other systems will be in high demand

Also, there are spme products that aren't specified as part of FHS but are definitely worth considering:

• Smart controls: Heating controls that are optimised for low-temperature heat pump systems will be more important than ever for maximising efficiency and user comfort
• Battery storage: When combined with Solar PV, this can help use more of the electricity being produced by the home, even more valuable in homes with heat pumps or electric vehicle charging

MKM is already expanding our range across these categories to ensure trades can source compliant, future-ready products with expert advice.

 

More Than Just Products: Evidence and Sign‑Off

The Future Homes Standard isn’t just about what you install, it’s also about being able to show it’s been done properly.

It’s likely that you’ll get asked more for product specifications and performance data. MKM can supply Data Sheets for you, speak to your local branch for more information. You may also need to give installation details including photos, commissioning certificates (for heat pumps, ventilation, solar, etc.), and evidence that systems are working as intended.

Getting familiar with this side of the job early can save time, stress and callbacks later.

 

What the Future Homes Standard Doesn’t Do

There’s been a lot of noise around the Future Homes Standard, so it’s worth being clear about what it doesn’t change:

• It doesn’t apply to existing homes unless you’re building a brand‑new dwelling.
• It doesn’t ban gas boilers in existing properties. Like‑for‑like replacements are still allowed under current rules.
• It doesn’t suddenly bring every small job into scope.  Routine repairs and minor works still follow existing regulations.

The focus of the Future Homes Standard is on new build homes, not on stopping trades from carrying out everyday work on existing properties.

 

What Else Is Changing Alongside FHS?

The Future Homes Standard mainly updates Part L (energy efficiency), but it sits alongside other regulations that are becoming more important in practice:

• Part F (Ventilation): As homes become more airtight, ventilation is under greater scrutiny to ensure good indoor air quality.
• Part O (Overheating): New homes must be designed to avoid overheating, which affects glazing choices, shading, and ventilation strategies.

This is why Building Control is increasingly asking questions about ventilation design, window sizes, and airflow, not just insulation thickness.

 

What Will Building Control Look at Differently?

One of the biggest changes trades will notice is how closely work is checked against the original design spec.

Building Control is likely to focus more on:

• Whether products installed match what was specified
• How well details are finished on site (airtightness, insulation continuity, thermal bridges)
• Whether systems have been properly installed, set up and commissioned

In short, there’s less tolerance for “that’ll do” and more emphasis on delivering what was designed, especially on new builds.

 

What is the Benefit for Trades?

FHS brings big opportunities for those who adapt early and here’s why:

• Learn Before it Becomes Essential: If you start using the products and skills now before the standards are mandatory, you’ll learn the pros, cons, and pitfalls well before the pressure is on and Building Control are signing off against the new standards.
• Become the Go-To Expert: Customers, from homeowners to small developers, will be looking for tradespeople who understand the new landscape. Being "FHS-ready" becomes a key differentiator that will help build trust and win business. You can guide customers through the complexities, helping them make smart, future-proof decisions.
• Upsell on Value, Not Just Price: The conversation can shift from quoting the cheapest job to providing the best long-term value. Higher‑performing homes have the potential for lower energy bills and greater comfort compared with older standards, helping customers see the benefit beyond upfront cost.
• Secure a First-Mover Advantage: The skills gap is real. Many in the trade will wait until the last minute to adapt, creating a surge in demand for qualified installers. By upskilling now in areas like heat pump installation, airtightness, and ventilation, you place yourself at the front of the queue for the best projects.

 

 

A Word on Cost and Learning Curves

It’s natural to worry that new standards mean more cost, more complexity, or more risk. The reality is this is a gradual transition, not a cliff edge. Skills can be picked up step-by-step so learning now, when pressure is lower, is far easier than scrambling later.

Most of the challenges with new standards come from lack of familiarity, not from the products themselves.

 

Building for the Future

The Future Homes Standard has been finalised later than expected, pushing the timescales out for the impact on completed new homes. That doesn’t meet you should wait until the last minute to get up to date with the new requirements. For trade professionals, the message is clear - the time to prepare is now.

At MKM, we’re committed to helping you make that transition smoothly. By working with trusted suppliers and industry leaders, we’re ensuring you have access to the right products, knowledge, and training resources to stay ahead.

Also, by supporting upskilling and providing impartial product guidance, MKM aims to ensure our customers are fully equipped to meet new standards, stay compliant, and seize early opportunities.

Visit your local MKM branch to find out how we can support your business and help you turn the Future Homes Standard into your next big opportunity.

 

Disclaimer: This article focuses on England, where the Future Homes Standard applies. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different regulations and timelines, so requirements may vary depending on where you’re working. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, details may change as official guidance is updated. This content is intended as a general overview and should not be taken as specific professional advice. At MKM, we’ll continue to update our information as updates are published. However, we are unable to accept responsibility for any details that may become outdated or the accuracy of content on external websites referenced.