Consumer Code Review on hold for 2026
News
The Consumer Code for Home Builders will not be subject to its expected triennial review in 2026. The Code’s Board has decided to pause the review until the outcome of recent government consultations have been announced.
Typically, the Code is reviewed every three years to ensure it remains fit for purpose and up to date with legislative change. The last review in 2023 was a major independent reassessment of the Code, resulting in several enhancements, including better alignment with other new homes codes to benefit consumers.
The planned review of the Code in 2026 has been put on hold while we await the findings and recommendations from three recent and related consultations, covering:
- Private estate management arrangements – applicable to many new home schemes
- Home buying and selling reform
- Material information in property listings
The Code has responded to each of the above consultations, which could directly impact the role of codes of conduct in the marketplace. Overall, our Board has sought assurance from government that any new initiatives will build on the learning and best practice already operating in the codes/new homes industry to avoid duplication and consumer confusion.
Code Chair, Noel Hunter, said: “Although regular reviews are an important part of keeping our Code current and robust, we believe it will be more helpful to home buyers – and industry – if we conduct our next review once we know the outcome of these recent consultations. There may be opportunities to strengthen consumer confidence and improve overall standards which could be included in the next iteration of the Code once the Government’s direction is clear.
“This is not a decision we take lightly but feel it is the most appropriate and efficient approach in the current circumstances.”
The Code currently anticipates proceeding with a review during 2027.
