What is the Future Homes Standard?
The Future Homes Standard 2026 (FHS) is the new government standard for new homes in England. It was published in March 2026 as part of the wider Future Homes and Buildings Standards (FHBS). The FHS requires new dwellings to be “zero-carbon ready” and sets out strict energy-efficiency requirements, including low-carbon heating and on-site renewable electricity generation.
Delivered in the form of updates to Approved Document L: Conservation of Fuel and Power, which already had a significant uplift to its requirements in 2022, and Approved Document F (Ventilation), the Future Homes Standard requires high-efficiency building fabric, low-carbon heating and
renewable energy such as solar PV.
These updated standards aim to reduce reliance on the grid, cut energy use, limit greenhouse gas emissions and reduce energy bills. Transitioning away from gas boilers will also help to future-proof buildings so they won’t require retrofitting as the energy grid decarbonises.
The FHBS will come into force on 24 March 2027. A 12-month transition period will follow, providing specifiers, architects and developers adequate time to adjust their projects accordingly.
How does the FHS affect roofing?
The FHS is expected to bring about a major change in how roofs are designed and built. While solar is not explicitly required in the new standard, installing PV arrays will be one of the most effective ways to achieve the renewable energy provision.
Marley SolarTile® is a roof-integrated solar PV panel that acts as a roof covering while also generating renewable energy. It features a low-profile, streamlined appearance, straightforward installation and tested wind resistance.
How can Marley support FHS compliance?
When the FHS was published in March 2026, the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP 10.3) remained the approved calculation methodology for demonstrating compliance. However, the Home Energy Model (HEM) is expected to replace SAP in due course.
Specifying the Marley SolarTile® can contribute to compliance with the FHS, and the team at Marley can provide specification advice and guidance to ensure all requirements are met, including:
- Approved Document L (Conservation of fuel and power)
- Approved Document F (Ventilation)
- Approved Document B (Fire safety)
- Approved Document S (Infrastructure for the charging of electric vehicles)
- BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 – Slating and tiling for pitched roofs and vertical cladding. Code of practice
- BS 5250:2021 – Management of moisture in buildings. Code of practice
The Marley Complete Roofing System includes everything to build a compliant roof from the battens up, providing a single supplier and fully compatible components, ensuring quick installation and reliable long-term performance.