Whilst location, location, location is considered to be the most important factor in buying a home, a house’s energy efficiency should be high on your list of priorities. Which is why UK Energy Saving has compiled the Homebuyers’ Energy Efficiency Checklist below. The Homebuyers’ Energy Efficiency Checklist covers the areas you should consider when looking round properties.
As of the 1st August 2007, some homeowners (depending on the size of the property) must compile a Home Information Pack before they can put their property on the market and this includes an Energy Performance Certificate. This gives an energy rating from A to G based on a property’s energy efficiency and environmental impact as well as suggestions of where further efficiencies could be made. This may cover some of the following areas.
Homebuyers’ Energy Efficiency Checklist – House Hunting
- 1. Insulation – is the property sufficiently insulated? This includes loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and pipe insulation. If so, you will be looking at considerable savings on your heating bills.
- 2. Appliances – are those which are included energy efficient models?
- 3. Double glazing – is the property double glazed or does it have secondary glazing? This helps to insulate the property and reduces condensation.
- 4. Boiler – is the boiler an energy efficient model? If so, this could save you money on your heating bills.
- 5. Draught proofing – is the house in need of draught proofing measures. Draught proofing will help to reduce your heating bills.
Homebuyers’ Energy Efficiency Checklist – Moving In
- 1. When you move in, why not take the opportunity to change the energy supplier to one offering a green tariff
- 2. Check the central heating temperature and timing controls to make sure that they are not on too high or more than you require.
- 3. Turn the water temperature down to 60ºC to reduce energy consumption and avoid scalding.
- 4. If they are not already in place, invest in some energy efficient light bulbs
- 5. Is renewable energy a viable option in your new home? Why not explore the options to see what might suit you?
- 6. If you are redecorating, why not consider buying organic paints
- 7. Find out what recycling options are available in your area by contacting your local council.
There are also grants available towards the cost of these home improvement measures, and you can apply for a free, no obligation home survey below. We have got together with Energylink who will contact you to arrange the survey should you be eligible for a grant. Simply complete the survey below and let Energylink check out what you are entitled to, which could be up to 75% of costs or even 100% if you are on certain benefits or aged over 70.
