<p><span>NHBC </span><span>has launched the 2021 edition of its technical Standards.</span></p> <p><span>The new Standards will apply to every home covered by an NHBC warranty where foundations are begun on or after January 1 2021</span><span>.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>The Standards are the culmination of the standards team’s work over the past year, developing fresh technical content and updates with help from stakeholders across the industry.</span></p><p>Updates include a full review of Chapter <span class="normaltextrun">7.1 “Flat Roofs, Terraces and Balconies”, reflecting its extended scope which now includes terraces and podiums; updates to </span>Chapter 6.1 “<span class="normaltextrun">External Masonry Walls” in line with <span>requirement changes; and a technical update </span>to Chapter 10.2 “Drives, Paths and Landscaping”. </span></p><p></p> <p><span>Richard Smith, NHBC’s head of standards, innovation and research, said: “</span><span>This edition is being issued during an extraordinary period where we are all facing a range of challenges caused by</span> <span>Covid-19.</span><br/></p><p></p> <p><span>“That said, we are confident that these updates will enhance the existing Standards, providing additional support and guidance, and will help builders and developers to deliver the highest possible new home standards for the benefit of people living in them.”</span></p><p></p> <p><span>Download Standards 2021 for free at </span><a href="http://www.nhbc.co.uk/standards_2021">www.nhbc.co.uk/standards_2021</a></p><p></p>