Independent research is the backbone of the Home Quality Mark (HQM).
The Home Quality Mark is part of the BREEAM family of schemes, it has been developed by scientists and technical experts at BRE.
HQM is the badge of a better home. It enables house builders to showcase the quality of their homes, and to distinguish them from other houses on the market.
The criteria in the scheme provide impartial information from independent experts on a new home’s quality. It clearly indicates to home buyers and renters the overall expected costs, health and wellbeing benefits, and environmental footprint associated with living in the home.
Research Type
As part of the Home Quality Mark’s development, BRE has conducted and commissioned a number of research projects:
- Market research – a variety of householders have been asked about the issues that are important to them.
- Technical research – including widespread consultations with the housing industry, which is still ongoing
See below for examples.
Case study: Essex Design Guide and HQM
Essex is a county of many challenges. With the need to plan for 180,000 new homes, high land and house prices, a focus on housing numbers rather than creating great places and has led to some developments being completed at both high financial cost at the expense of quality. Click below to find out how the Essex Design Guide uses HQM as a way to recognise quality.
Market Research
Three studies were undertaken to investigate what factors influence people’s choice of home, what people think about living in a ‘sustainable’ home and how renters and buyers would react to having a quality rating tool for homes.
Technical Research
As part of the development of the Home Quality Mark (HQM) technical research and consultations have been undertaken that are helping to form the technical background and structure of the HQM.
HQM Standard
HQM ONE is now available.
HQM Training
Find out more about HQM training and how to become a licensed assessor.
Why a Home Quality Mark?
Recent independent research shows that householders value expert guidance that they can trust when selecting a home.
How Is It Assessed?
Independent, fully trained and licensed professionals will asseess and score wide ranging aspects of a new home to give an overall quality rating.
Who is Behind the Home Quality Mark?
BRE, the UK's leading building science centre.
