What steps can I take as a developer to reduce the water footprint of a new home?

Recommendations include equipping new homes with water-efficient showerheads, dishwashers and washing machines, aerated taps, dual-flush toilets, and, for the garden, water butts and drought-resistant plants.

The installation in new-builds of greywater or rainwater harvesting systems can generate enough water to flush the toilet, wash the car or water the garden and are much more efficient and cost effective when installed during construction.

All new homes must be fitted with a water meter, which means that water bills for new homeowners will be based on the amount of water they use, so saving water means saving money on bills too.