COVER STORY NHBC
NHBC ACCEPTS: DRIVING OFFSITE HOUSING EXCELLENCE
NHBC provide warranty and insurance for around 75-80% of the new homes built in the UK each year. With the recent launch of NHBC Accepts, they now bring decades of expertise and knowledge to the offsite world. We spoke to Richard Lankshear, NHBC’s Innovation Manager, about the new service.
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1 Q: How will NHBC Accepts drive forward and secure build quality in new homes regarding offsite methods and innovative systems? Richard Lankshear (RL): As part of the new service, detailed and robust technical reviews at key stages will result in provision of a certificate (and acceptance for NHBC warranty), usage licence for a bespoke NHBC Accepts logo and website listing. We ask manufacturers to demonstrate that their modern methods of construction (MMC) system meets NHBC Standards through a detailed review of the design, method of
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manufacture, quality controls and onsite construction. We are transparent in our requirements so that all those who live in, lend to and build with MMC systems can be confident in the quality of their homes. Q: How difficult has it been to develop NHBC Accepts and a more ‘co-ordinated approach’ across the business when dealing with the myriad offsite systems on the market? RL: The MHCLG definition framework for MMC highlights the broad nature of the products and systems that we review. From fully-fitted volumetric
units, to panelised systems to site-based products and building components. However, the principle question remains the same – how can you demonstrate that your product meets our technical requirements? But while the question remains the same, it has meant that we need to be able to interrogate systems built from all common structural materials (and some less common), above and below the ground and manufactured both in the UK and abroad. To do so, I have a team with a broad background (architects, engineers, surveyors and inspectors) and the great strength of NHBC means that we can also draw on the specialisms of others where required. Q: What feedback have you had so far on the scope of NHBC Accepts from industry? RL: Since the launch in July we have had over 80 new enquiries which shows the value that this brings to manufacturers. However, what has been really telling are the messages of support from developers, lenders, property lawyers, agents and consultants. There was clearly a pent up demand for NHBC to pin its flag to the mast and declare that we do have
WWW.OFFSITEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
