Construction Codes (BREEAM, CSH and CEEQUAL)
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and the Building Research Establishment (BRE) Group's ‘Code for Sustainable Homes’ (CSH) are the industry standard environmental assessment methods for building developments. Whilst these are not mandatory, they are often imposed as a condition in the planning permission process as well as being used to assure prospective home-owners of the quality of the build. CEEQUAL is the assessment and awards scheme for improving sustainability in civil engineering, landscaping and the public realm, and celebrates the achievement of high environmental and social performance.
The BREEAM and CSH assessments operate a credit system where points are awarded in different categories, such as energy, transport and water as well as ecology. The performance of the development is assessed against each of these categories and an overall score awarded depending on the number of points achieved.
Some of the ecology credits are only available following a site assessment visit and production of a report by a Suitably Qualified Ecologist (SQE). Our BREEAM and CSH compliant surveys provide all the information necessary to maximize the number of credits that can be awarded. Our reports have been developed in line with BRE guidelines and provide clear recommendations for the Ecological Credit Points available.
Our experience demonstrates the best scores are achieved when ecology credits are considered at an early stage in the project. For more information and advice on the requirements of BREEAM and CSH please call us and one of our ecologists will be happy to talk you through the process.
Those seeking a CEEQUAL award for their project will be aware that scores are weighted such that nearly 9% can be awarded for exceptional handling of ecology and biodiversity issues. The CEEQUAL scheme seeks to extend the legal requirements under law to exemplary performance against social and environmental targets.
When brought in at an early stage, ECOSA can assist a CEEQUAL Assessor in maximising the opportunities for conservation, mitigation and habitat creation as appropriate. ECOSA can provide an independent assessment of the extent to which conservation objectives have been realised and how the status of key species and habitats, during and following the project works, have been maintained or enhanced.
ECOSA has extensive experience in stream-lining ecological surveys and works with Project Managers and construction teams. Our management plans for SSSIs and public open spaces have produced positive results for both wildlife and local people. Please call us to discuss how we can work with your team and CEEQUAL Assessor to efficiently maximise your ecological credentials.
ECOSA is a fully registered member of the Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) forum, through ‘Safety Management Advisory Services' (SMAS) accreditation. SSIP registration demonstrates that ECOSA have an appropriate level of competence in their Health and Safety management systems. In addition, all key ECOSA ecologists are Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) operative certified, and all staff are committed to the ECOSA Health and Safety policy.