The UK government has amended its Future Homes Standard policy to allow exemptions for gas boiler installations in new homes under exceptional circumstances, according to a consultation response published this week — a shift from its earlier position that no exceptions would be permitted. Local councils will be given powers to waive the requirement for low-carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps, in specific cases, with building authorities assessing applications individually.
Exemptions will be limited to exceptional circumstances, including rural properties without access to the national electricity grid. “The Future Homes and Buildings Standard is a step change in energy efficiency, and the vast majority of new homes and buildings will be expected to meet it in full,” a government spokesperson told The Times. “We committed to keeping the need for dispensations or relaxations under review, and these will be allowed by the relevant building authority only in individual cases and in exceptional circumstances.”
The adjustment follows concerns from developers about implementing a blanket ban in areas with limited infrastructure, particularly rural and off-grid sites. Officials had previously said the regulations already had enough flexibility without formal exemptions; the consultation response indicates that position has been reconsidered following industry feedback. The amendment will require updates to the building regulations framework, and development industry bodies are expected to issue guidance on the exemption application process once the revised regulations are finalised.
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PropertyWire – Government Allows Gas Boiler Exemptions in New Homes Policy
