"The Future Homes Standard (FHS) was designed to deliver higher-performing, lower-carbon homes, but the timetable slipped after the government ordered further reviews on supply chain readiness and small builder capacity. For firms that invested early, the delay has been costly and demoralising. Steff Wright, founder of Gusto Construction, said the industry has been left in limbo: "Many of us have already gone to significant lengths to prepare for the FHS... all of which feel very much in vain currently.""
"To regain momentum, Wright and a coalition of developers, housing associations and suppliers are urging ministers to launch a voluntary Future Homes Standard. Their proposal includes targeted stamp duty relief - removing the tax for homes built to the higher standard - to help buyers shoulder upfront costs while enabling developers to recoup investment. Wright argues this could unlock stalled progress: "If a voluntary FHS was introduced, early movers would encourage manufacturers and installers to invest in products, skills and tools.""
Ministers postponed the Future Homes Standard originally planned for early 2025 after ordering further reviews on supply chain readiness and small builder capacity. Extended consultations and shifting timelines have left developers uncertain how to prepare, inflating costs and stalling progress on lower-carbon housing. Firms that invested early report wasted preparation and demoralisation. A leaked OBR analysis forecasts annual housing supply falling from 260,000 to 215,000 homes by 2026-27, worsening affordability pressures. A coalition of developers, housing associations and suppliers urges a voluntary FHS with targeted stamp duty relief to offset upfront costs and incentivise manufacturers, installers and early movers.
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