The consultation (95-Pages/343KB ) also proposes the introduction of new energy efficiency requirements when redevelopment works take place. Green Deal finance will be available for that work.
The proposals will reform Part L of the Building Regulations and have been developed in order to reduce regulatory costs for businesses, and pave the way for the introduction of zero-carbon homes from 2016, Ministers said.
"A quarter of the carbon emissions produced each year come from our homes, so it is vital we get to grips with energy efficiency to tackle this problem," said Andrew Stunell, Communities Minister. "The Coalition is committed to being the greenest government ever, so improving the energy efficiency of our existing buildings through the Green Deal, and ensuring that all new homes are zero carbon by 2016 is a top priority."
The proposed targets have been calculated to balance the cost impact on housebuilders, whilst keeping up momentum to achieve the zero carbon target set for new homes by 2016 and for non-domestic buildings by 2019, the consultation said.
The Government has estimated that the proposed targets would add a cost of £795 to each new home but would provide benefits to homeowners through significant energy savings.
The consultation is open for responses until 27 March 2012 on additional 'consequential' improvements in existing buildings and until 27 April 2012 on the remaining changes. Once the Government has considered the responses, the aim is to introduce changes to the Building Regulations in 2013.
