Modern Methods of Construction of New Homes (NH3)
Framework Description
Modern Methods of Construction New Homes (NH3) is an LHC Procurement Group framework for the offsite development of new homes using modern methods of construction (MMC). It replaced NH2 and was developed with housing contractors, clients and manufacturers. It has four workstreams, from modular systems to groundworks, and runs until 1 May 2027. It is a framework agreement rather than a DPS, and applications for it are closed. This framework is used by LHC Procurement Group and SWPA.
Context & Use Case
Local authorities, social landlords and other public sector bodies use NH3 for general housing, apartments including student accommodation and care homes, temporary accommodation, adaptive pods and 'room in the roof' projects. It also covers net zero carbon schemes and groundworks for offsite projects. The framework encourages early collaboration and pre-construction service agreements, in line with the 'Gold Standard' review of public sector construction frameworks.
Scope of Services
Workstream 1: 3D modular systems Workstream 2: 2D panelised systems Workstream 3: main contractors Workstream 4: groundworks and associated works
Lots
Workstream 1: 3D Modular Systems; Workstream 2: 2D Panelised Systems; Workstream 3: Main Contractors; Workstream 4: Groundworks and Associated Works
Who Can Apply
Suits offsite manufacturers with modular or panelised systems, main contractors delivering MMC housing, and groundworks firms supporting offsite schemes. Applications for NH3 are closed, so firms not already appointed cannot join before it ends on 1 May 2027. The next chance is its replacement.
Buyer Benefits
Housing providers use MMC to build faster, with predictable quality and lower carbon. Buyers value a route developed with manufacturers and contractors, where appointed companies have been assessed on accreditations and processes, and the chance to pool demand with other public bodies so factories have a steadier pipeline.
Next Steps
If you are appointed, use LHC's NH3 procurement guide to understand the call-off routes and target pipeline schemes before May 2027. If not, expect a successor to be procured around that date, so follow LHC's framework pages for news. Prepare evidence of factory capacity, product certification, net zero performance and delivered housing schemes now.
How Athena Can Help
With this framework ending in May 2027, MMC suppliers should plan now for its successor. Athena's public sector bid strategy helps you assess whether the replacement fits your product and capacity. Our framework application writers then prepare the selection and quality responses, including manufacturing quality evidence and social value.
Appointed suppliers bidding for schemes can use our bid management help for win themes, competitor analysis and pricing models that stand up to scrutiny.
