The measures will apply to all new homes and residential institutions, including student halls of residence, from 2021.

In force from 2025, the new measures are aimed at protecting the environment, lowering energy use and bills, and reducing emissions.

Homes England said it had decided to push back the original deadline due to delays in the construction of new homes caused by COVID-19.

Renters who accrued arrears during the pandemic could now face eviction – despite the government recently extending the evictions ban.

The Welsh government claims the proposals would give Wales the most comprehensive building safety regime in the UK.

Legislation to further suspend evictions in Wales will come into force from Monday, the minister has confirmed.

The UK government has announced that it will extend the eviction ban for renters in England till 21 February.

Regulations will be laid out in the Scottish Parliament next week to extend the current ban, which is due to end on 22 January.

Generation Rent is urging the government to reinstate the eviction ban that was introduced during the first lockdown.

The funding represents a portion of the c.£750m invested into tackling homelessness and rough sleeping in 2021.