Lifetime Homes
Lifetime Homes and the Code for Sustainable Homes
An introductionLifetime Homes (mandatory for Code level 6) is a concept to develop flexible and adaptable homes which incorporate elements to support the changing needs of individuals and families at different stages of life. The Code for Sustainable Homes have incorporated it into the Code as a way of making homes more sustainable. Many planning authorities also require new build homes to incorporate the LTH standards.
|
Lifetime Homes (LTH) - what are they?
LTH are ordinary homes incorporating 16 Design Criteria that can be universally applied to new homes at minimal cost. All 16 Design Criteria must be met for houses to be Lifetime Homes (mandatory for Code level 6), and indeed the Code for Sustainable Homes also requires all aspects to be met to give the credits.
The 16 Criteria
The 16 criteria for Lifetime Homes (mandatory for Code level 6) are as follows:
1) Parking (width or widening capability)
2) Approach to dwelling from parking
3) Approach to all entrances
4) Entrances
5) Communal stairs and lifts
6) Internal doorways and hallways
7) Circulation Space
8) Entrance level living space
9) Potential for entrance level living space
10) Entrance level WC and shower drainage
11) WC and bathroom walls
12) Stairs and potential through-floor lift in dwellings
13) Potential for fitting of hoists and bedroom/ bathroom
14) Bathrooms
15) Glazing and window handle heights
16) Location of service controls.
They can also be summarised by the following diagram.
Life time Homes and the Code for Sustainable Homes
As a Code for Sustainable Homes Assessor, the Lifetime Homes (mandatory for Code level 6) provides a low cost but highly weighted number of credits that if considered at the earliest design stages can significantly assist dwellings achieving the relevant level of the Code for Sustainable Homes.
Where Level 6 is required, the LTH aspects are mandatory, although the credits are still awarded.
At Code Assessors .net we have working experience of the LTH Regulations and can assist with their integration. Call or email us today for more information.