New standard for bricks

The Brick Development Association (BDA) has announced the removal of the 1-star rating from its Brickmakers Quality Charter (BQC) scheme, reflecting a commitment to continuous improvement and aligning with the higher standards mandated by the UK's Building Safety Act 2022 and Future Homes Standard. This move, part of the "Better with Brick" campaign, underscores the BDA's dedication to promoting safer, more sustainable, and higher-quality clay bricks for future generations.

“The introduction of the Building Safety Act and Future Homes Standard presents an opportunity to reshape the industry for the better," said Keith Aldis, CEO of the BDA. "By removing the 1-star rating from the BQC and focusing on 2 and 3-star certifications, we are actively raising the bar for higher levels of quality and performance from brickmakers."

The Building Safety Act sets stricter requirements for fire safety, structural integrity, and construction product regulations. The Future Homes Standard mandates sustainable, low-carbon homes with improved energy efficiency. By aligning with these legislative initiatives, the BDA ensures that the clay bricks used in the UK’s built environment meet the highest standards for safety, sustainability, and performance.

This move towards higher standards isn't just about legislation, it's about empowering consumers and promoting confidence in the built environment. "We believe residents deserve peace of mind knowing their homes are constructed with safe, high-quality materials," said Keith. "Removing the 1-star rating clearly communicates our commitment to achieving this objective."

While the BDA acknowledges that achieving higher standards requires effort and investment, they firmly believe the UK brick industry is well-positioned to embrace this challenge. "The good news is, the majority of UK manufacturers already achieve the 2 or 3-star certification under the BQC scheme," says Keith, highlighting the industry's existing commitment to quality. "Moving from 1-star to 2-star isn't a major leap for most, and we're here to support them every step of the way with resources and guidance. We have full confidence that the industry will rise to the occasion and collectively raise the bar for excellence."

The "Better with Brick" campaign highlights the numerous benefits of choosing high-quality clay bricks, including superior durability, fire resistance, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Consumers are encouraged to learn more about the BQC scheme and the importance of choosing certified bricks at www.brick.org.uk/bqc.