What the Future Homes Standard means for roof design

The government has confirmed a major step forward in the UK’s path to Net Zero. From the introduction of the Future Homes Standard (FHS) this autumn, new build homes will be expected to include rooftop solar panels by default. The requirement is for 40% of roof space to be covered with solar PV panels, except where there are practical limitations, such as shading from trees or unsuitable orientation.

This marks the first time that Building Regulations will explicitly promote rooftop solar, making renewable electricity generation a functional requirement for nearly all new homes. As part of this announcement, the government also reiterated that low-carbon heating, energy efficiency, and improved ventilation will be key features of the FHS.

For TRA members, this news is significant. With trussed rafters forming the structural framework for around 80% of new build roofs, our members are at the heart of this transition.

Nick Boulton, Chief Executive of the TRA says:

“We fully support this initiative and, as the structural framework for around 80% of roofs on new build properties, trussed rafters and TRA members are perfectly placed to help housebuilders meet the challenges this change brings.”

What’s new in the government’s announcement?

• Solar PV as default: All new homes must have rooftop solar installed unless there’s a justified reason not to.
• 40% roof coverage: This is the expected benchmark, though there is some flexibility.
• FHS confirmed for autumn 2025: After delays, the government has now committed to publishing the final Future Homes Standard later this year.
• Energy savings: According to the government, a typical UK home could save around £530 a year from rooftop solar, based on current prices.

These changes are part of a wider push to ensure new homes use clean, homegrown power, reducing bills for residents and boosting the UK’s energy security.

Luke Roberts, TRA Chairman, adds:

“We welcome the benefits solar panels will bring for homeowners and the country, but this change does add complexity to roof design.

“Trussed rafters offer the flexibility needed, and our designers are ready to help customers, especially those with standard house types to review and adapt their roof layouts.

“We encourage the housing sector to work with us to develop efficient, standard solutions for supporting additional equipment and maintenance access.”

What does this mean for TRA members?

This update represents a turning point for the roofing and timber industries. The increased demand for rooftop solar brings both opportunity and responsibility:

• Structural collaboration: Roof designs will need to ensure sufficient load-bearing capacity and accommodate solar layouts effectively. Trussed rafters offer the flexibility and efficiency needed to support these additional requirements.
• Early engagement: Housebuilders, architects, and structural engineers will need to consult with trussed rafter manufacturers early in the design process to align panel positioning with roof structure and truss layout.
• Standardisation and innovation: As the expectation for solar-ready homes becomes the norm, TRA members can play a vital role in developing and promoting best practice design solutions that integrate solar panel mounting systems with structural frameworks.

This is also a moment for our members to demonstrate leadership. As Neil Jefferson of the Home Builders Federation notes, four in ten new homes already feature solar panels, but that number is set to rise significantly. TRA members have a key part to play in helping housebuilders achieve this at scale, without delays.

Meanwhile, David Thomas from Barratt Redrow and Ed Lockhart from the Future Homes Hub have both highlighted how this announcement gives the industry much-needed clarity and a timeline to plan for. For TRA members, it’s an invitation to be proactive in training, supply chain coordination, and developing the capabilities needed to meet this new standard confidently.

Moving forward

The Future Homes Standard is about delivering homes that are healthier, cheaper to run, and better for the planet. Trussed rafters will be integral to this transformation, providing adaptable, robust, and lightweight solutions that support renewable energy and energy efficiency.

We encourage all TRA members to familiarise themselves with the latest guidance and be ready to engage with developers, specifiers, and solar installers as this policy rolls out.

Find out more on the government’s website.