Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord or a tenant, you’ll have almost certainly heard of Energy Performance Certificates, or EPCs.  Much like the stickers you’ll find on domestic white goods and car tyres, an EPC provides an indication of the current and potential energy efficiency of a property. 

In an era when people are increasingly aware of not only the eco savings, but also the financial savings that can be made by being energy efficient, this can’t be a bad thing. 

Indeed, if you’re a landlord, you’ll already be aware of new standards coming in to force this April which stipulates that any rental property must achieve a minimum energy efficiency “E” rating.  Not adhering to this may result in financial penalties for landlords.

And whilst, for the moment, the minimum energy efficiency standards coming in to effect in April 2018 will only affect landlords, if you’re simply a homeowner living in the property you own, you might also want to pay closer attention to your home’s energy efficiency. 

That’s because the Committee on Climate Change recently called for moves to be made to ban the sale of homes with poor energy efficiency ratings of “F” and “G”, where the homeowner has failed to make improvements.  Whether that comes to fruition, and in what timeframe, remains to be seen. Whilst it is not yet an issue for homeowners in the same way that it is for landlords, the benefits of a more energy efficient home should, nonetheless, be viewed positively.

And the good news is that small changes can have a big impact.

Insulation is key.  Given up to 40% of heat can escape through the roof, it’s definitely worth looking in to! Increased insulation to walls and loft areas where possible will make a significant difference, as will replacing your central heating boiler; the installation of solar panels; or window and door replacement with double or triple glazed alternatives. 

However, it’s likely you’ll only take these steps if you’re facing a necessary replacement due to age, or you’re wholly committed to ultimate energy efficiency.  Thankfully, further improvements can be made with less severe financial outlays. For example, replacing your light bulbs with more energy efficient ones and turning appliances off rather than leaving in ‘stand-by’ are simple steps that over time can have a real impact.

So, if you’re keen to reduce the carbon footprint of your property and wish to understand the impact that this could have on its overall attractiveness in the sales market, then visit your local Andrews branch or visit www.andrewsonline.co.uk, and ensure you’re ahead of the game if minimum energy efficiency standards for property sales are introduced in the future.