How Certification Works
A proven path to high-performance homes
Achieving certification is a structured process designed to integrate sustainability into every stage of your project. From initial assessment to final certification, BREEAM provides third-party verification of performance and quality—offering peace of mind to developers, investors, and homeowners alike.
The certification journey
Begin by registering your development with BRE via a licensed BREEAM Assessor. Early registration ensures sustainability is embedded into design and procurement decisions from the outset.
An initial assessment is carried out based on plans, specifications, and proposed strategies. This stage identifies key opportunities for improvement and awards a provisional BREEAM rating based on predicted performance.
Once construction is complete, your BREEAM Assessor verifies that the score achieved by the constructed project meets the design intent. Evidence is collected and evaluated to ensure the final build aligns with sustainability targets.
What’s Assessed?
BREEAM UK New Construction: Residential evaluates both the home and its context, covering:
Design & construction quality: Integration of low-carbon, durable, and responsibly sourced materials
Energy & water efficiency: Use of efficient systems and technologies that reduce running costs
Health & wellbeing: Indoor air quality, thermal comfort, daylight, and acoustic performance
Environmental impact: Biodiversity enhancement, waste reduction, and climate resilience
Community integration: Connectivity, access to services, and social value
Trusted, transparent, third-party assurance
Every BREEAM rating is independently assessed and verified. This ensures that each certified home lives up to its promise of quality and sustainability. Certification is proof that your homes meet the demands of today’s buyers, investors, and regulatory frameworks.
BREEAM UK New Construction: Residential continues the legacy of HQM, building on the same scientific rigour and holistic principles. As part of the globally recognised BREEAM suite, it ensures consistency across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.
Ready to start your BREEAM UKNCR assessment?