Frequently Asked Questions
Index of Questions
FAQ Answers
- Q. How long does it take to write a sustainable development policy using Sustainability Works project writer?
- A. To build up a basic policy, about 2 hrs. However you will need to spend additional time researching the subject matter in detail and writing clauses tailored to your organization if you want more than just the basic recommendations. Our advice is build up a simple policy and review it annually.
- Q. Does using Sustainability Works mean that I will not need the services of a BRE EcoHomes licenced assessor.
- A. No. Sustainability Works standards check allows you to rapidly generate an EcoHomes prediction, so you can quickly work out whether your project will achieve “pass”, “good” “very good” or “excellent” at the outset. Once the scheme reaches detailed design stage you will need the services of a BRE licenced assessor.
- Q. If I use Sustainability Works, will I comply with Housing Corporation requirements.
- A. The use of Sustainability Works is not required by the Housing Corporation but the software is supported by them as it can help you write a sustainable development policy (which is a HC recommendation), can quickly give you an EcoHomes rating (EcoHomes “very good” will be HC recommended from April 2005) and can provide you with a Sustainability Toolkit report (required by the HC).
- Q. Can we use Sustainability Works to provide a sustainability statement to the local authority when applying for planning permission?
- A. Yes
- Q. How do we ensure that our organization does not save multiple sustainable development policies to the Sustainability Works database?
- A. This is not possible as the process is controlled at registration. Only one person in any organization is authorised to write and edit a policy, but they can transfer that authorization to somebody else if they change jobs or leave etc.
- Q. Can I use project writer to set targets on a particular scheme if I haven’t got a policy for my organization.
- A. Yes
- Q. Can I just use Standards check to predict an EcoHomes rating?
- A. Yes — if you have written a project report using Sustainability Works at either feasibility or implementation stage
- Q. Is using Sustainability Works going to save me time and optimize efficiency in my organization?
- A. Yes. All the research and information from the reference database is always accessible- you need to do no further research so there is no re-invention of the wheel. Your colleagues can also see and share your work on line, making communication of standards,policies and targets more efficient.
- Q. How do I know the information is impartial and up to date?
- A. Sustainability Works has been government funded and is not attached to any particular lobbying group. It always tries to present the full picture on every one of its 68 issues and then leaves you to take a decision about what is suitable for you’re specific projects. It is not prescriptive and recommends no particular products or systems. The content is independently reviewed by specialist commentators, each experts in their field.
- Q. What subjects does Sustainability Works cover?
- A. The full range of social and environmental aspects of sustainable development and housing. See the full list of 8 topics and 68 issues for further details.
- Q. Do I need prior knowledge of sustainable housing to use the application?
- A. No — the information is clearly set out and presented in plain language suitable for complete novices but also useful to experts in the field. As with any computer software, it is helpful to get some expert input and advice to be able to use the full potential of the on line application. If you feel you need further help, training courses are available. For more information see our training page
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