Exploring the complexity of understanding, managing and marketing codes for sustainability in the current economic climate-issues for the small builder

Abstract

In the UK the Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) is set to become mandatory in 2016. However current attitudinal research highlights unwillingness within the major construction industry although there is some promising research regarding occupier awareness. Little is known about attitudes of Small to Medium Building Enterprises regarding the CSH. We conducted an in-depth interview study with builders and found that by and large they have a good understanding of the CSH and value a good relationship with building inspectors. In addition they are not computer illiterate and have been using technology for decades. Their use of "estimating" software allows them to gain intricate knowledge of all the different stages of the building process and as such presents itself as a promising vehicle to also educate them about the CSH. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2012.