Homeowners want to be green

The Energy Savings Trust’s survey, carried out amongst UK consumers, found:

• Almost half (48 per cent) of householders in England are interested to know how their home or future home would rate on an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC);
• 29 per cent of householders said their decision will be affected by EPCs;
• EPCs will also affect 37 per cent of householders’ decision when making home improvements;
• 53 per cent of householders in England admit they are unaware of Energy Performance Certificates.

Energy efficiency has been a significant factor in the sale of new build properties for some time, as new homes are designed to minimise waste and to work in balance with the environment. This often means lower running costs compared to traditional homes, and a more eco-friendly way of living. The cost of energy and the carbon output of a home is clearly going to be a bigger influence on sales of all types of property going forward, as the ‘green agenda’ becomes a key consideration for consumers - especially when they are making the really big purchasing and lifestyle decisions in life.

Miles Shipside, commercial director of Rightmove, commented: “A big plus for new homes has always been that everything is new from the roof to the walls, the insulation to the windows, boilers, heaters and appliances which incorporate the latest energy saving devices. Homebuyers who are among those 48 per cent who want to know the energy efficiency score of their home are more likely to consider newly built properties alongside the second hand residential market. The average new home can be up to four times more energy efficient and could be a cheaper alternative to replacing old appliances and making costly improvements.

“However some of the most sought after properties are the least energy efficient, including those with period features, high ceilings and large windows. Rightmove believes that home buyers will be taking the time to consider carefully exactly how they may be able to achieve energy savings within all types of properties they are thinking about buying – especially where the installation of better insulation and up-to-date appliances may have a real effect upon both the appearance and the future saleability of the property.”