Meeting the Design Objective

2.3 In order to meet the design objective, Associations should incorporate:

Into their development brief, the minimum standards which are set out in this Guide as these are considered to be mandatory, and where relevant:
The additional good practice recommendations should be considered by Housing Associations and incorporated in the development brief with the aim of producing appropriate good quality housing to meet the identified needs.

2.4 Deviations from the Design Requirements - The minimum standards apply to all schemes. Associations will however be required to certify – on a scheme-by-scheme basis - that the scheme complies with current Design Standards. Where an Association proposes to depart from a specific requirement in a scheme, this must be clearly documented and NIHE (DPG) approval should be sought at the earliest possible opportunity.

2.5 Application to Rehabilitation, Off-the-Shelf and Existing Satisfactory Purchase (ESP) Schemes - Associations should endeavour to ensure that the minimum standards are addressed in these schemes. However, it is accepted that strict adherence could result in abortive works, substantial delay and a level of cost disproportionate to the benefits. In such schemes, the Association must document the case as to why it is necessary to disregard particular items and that they are satisfied the resulting scheme will provide suitable accommodation for the people to be housed. The Association should also retain all relevant information which provides the basis for non-compliance and this should be retained for audit purposes.

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