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What is PAS 8700:2025 Modern methods of construction for new build residential properties – Specification about?
This PAS sets out the process for the effective deployment of modern methods of construction (MMC) in residential development to improve stakeholder understanding and realize the benefits of MMC. As the sector has significantly evolved and matured, there is a need for greater consistency and comparability to increase the use of MMC.
This PAS has therefore been developed to provide a unified specification, which is material and technology agnostic, and to act as a coordinating document that directs readers to other technical requirements. The aim is to support the procurement, design, manufacture, construction and use of safe, resilient and repairable residential buildings that use MMC.
Who is PAS 8700:2025 Modern methods of construction for new build residential properties – Specification for?
This PAS is intended for those involved in the procurement, design, manufacture, assembly, use or management of new-build residential MMC buildings. This PAS is of interest to regulators, building insurance providers, mortgage lenders, building managers and occupiers.
What does PAS 8700:2025 Modern methods of construction for new build residential properties – Specification cover?
This PAS specifies requirements for modern methods of construction (MMC) in new-build residential properties, including processes and activities.
This PAS is applicable to most build types and materials and covers:
- project set-up and appointments;
- design;
- risk, safety and skills;
- information management and systems manuals;
- delivery and assembly; and
- maintenance, repair, adaptation, disassembly and end-of-life.
Why should you use PAS 8700:2025 Modern methods of construction for new build residential properties – Specification?
- Knowledge: it helps users understand how an MMC approach differs from a traditional approach and informs them what activities are required within which work stages. It informs users how quality, safety (in particular fire and structural) and embodied carbon are managed within an MMC approach. And it informs users how MMC characteristics such as modular grids, and standardized components and interfaces, support the realization of the building as a whole.
- Efficacy: it provides a unified specification for MMC processes and solutions that builds on existing industry good practice to support the design, manufacture and use of safe and durable residential buildings, driving better, faster and greener delivery.
- Reassurance: it can help bring consistency and comparability across an evolving sector, helping support suppliers; addressing performance risks; and building the confidence of clients, regulators, insurers and funders that such solutions are not only appropriate but offer advantages over traditional approaches.
- Quality: it enables the delivery of compliant systems and products that support the durability, longevity, repairability and associated costs of MMC.
- Risk management: it can help users realize the full benefits of DfMA and MMC by doing more design and planning work early in the process, by using more standardized solutions, and by encouraging more supply chain engagement, all of which help de-risk outcomes.
- Intrinsic benefits: it can help deliver the intrinsic benefits of MMC, which include:
- earlier cost and timescale certainty;
- improved productivity, efficient use of materials, reduction in labour and help overcoming skills shortages;
- enhanced quality control and delivery speed;
- reduced waste and improvements in health and safety;
- better build quality, less carbon (operational and embodied) and more use of sustainable materials;
- lower energy bills and maintenance costs;
- improved thermal and acoustic performance and indoor air quality;
- unlocking of previously inaccessible and small infill sites; and
- superior disassembly and recyclability.
What has changed?
PAS 8700:2025 is a new publication.
