Image description: Housing construction in progress. Photo by Ernie Journeys on Unsplash
The UK government has announced new measures aimed at improving water efficiency in new homes, a move expected to reduce household bills and support the construction of new housing developments. According to a statement from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), the proposed changes include updating building regulations to encourage the use of water-efficient devices and fittings. These updates are part of a broader strategy to address water scarcity and environmental sustainability.
The changes could see the introduction of a new minimum standard for water efficiency in homes, potentially reducing average water use to 110 litres. This would be achieved through minor amendments to existing building regulations, such as mandating more efficient toilets, taps, and showers.
The initiative is also expected to remove barriers to housebuilding by aligning water efficiency standards with planning requirements. Developers have previously faced delays due to concerns over water usage in new developments. By streamlining regulations, the government hopes to facilitate the construction of thousands of new homes.
Environment Secretary, Emma Reynolds, said:
We are getting Britain building faster, and a key element to growth is smarter water consumption.
Removing the water shortage barriers that have stalled development for too long will mean unlocking thousands of new homes while saving families money.
Not only will this make customer bills cheaper; it will protect the environment and unlock thousands of new homes as part of our Plan for Change.
The government is currently consulting on the proposed changes, with feedback being sought from developers, local authorities, and the public. If implemented, the new standards could play a key role in reducing water consumption and supporting the UK’s net zero and environmental goals.
Future innovations, such as using harvested rainwater to flush home toilets, are also being considered in a call to evidence that is running alongside the consultation.
Dr. Tom Dollard, Chair, Good Homes Alliance welcomed the consultation saying:
Our membership is facing real challenges in delivering new homes due to a lack of water capacity in their areas.
If we are to meet the Government housing delivery targets and unlock economic growth then we must start building more ‘water smart’ homes and neighbourhoods.
We would like to see a refreshed Part G that is aligned to the water neutrality hierarchy, and a fittings-based approach combined with a water labelling scheme that would deliver water efficient homes at scale across the UK.
We encourage all stakeholders from across industry to respond to this important consultation.”