Saving money on energy bills has been high on most people’s agenda throughout 2023, and it is one of the biggest factors when it comes to making green home improvements.
A study by Rightmove as part of its Rightmove Greener Homes Report 2023 found that 78% of homeowners say reducing energy bills would motivate them to make changes to their home.
It’s also a known fact that the higher a home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is, the lower the energy bills are likely to be for the property.
If you are thinking of putting your home on the market, an improved EPC rating can often add value to the price and again, Rightmove’s survey found that when they asked homeowners if they think it is worth paying more for an energy-efficient home, only 6% disagreed.
Additionally, the property portal reported the below:
‘A home improving from an EPC rating of D to C, could see an increase in value of 3%, or £11,157. While moving from an F to a C rating could increase the property’s value by an average of an additional 15%, or almost £56,000, when looking at the current national average asking price.’
|
Improved EPC rating |
Average increase in value |
|
From D to C |
+3%, or £11,157 |
|
From E to C |
+7%, or £26,033 |
|
From F to C |
+15%, or £55,786 |
So, what can you do to green-proof your home?
Upgrade your boiler
Many people are looking into investing in air source or ground source heat pumps. While this may come with a higher upfront cost, it brings with it lower energy prices, making it a good long-term investment or an attractive selling point for potential buyers.
Regardless of whether you decide to go for an alternative heating method, it is vital you make sure you service your boiler and ensure it is in good running order.
Good insulation
Be sure to check your insulation in the loft and cavity walls. In doing so, it really is a simple way to reduce heat loss in the home, which can then in turn lead to lower energy bills.
Upgrade your lighting
Lighting is one of the biggest consumers of energy, so therefore using LED lighting will give the same lighting as non-LED, while having a lower energy usage.
Go electric
Make your home even more appealing to green buyers by installing an electric car charge point.
New windows
If the budget stretches, then an investment into new double or triple glazed windows will make all the difference when it comes to keeping the coldout. If a window overhaul isn’t on the cards be sure to check all handles and hinges shut and window seals don’t need replacing.
Here at Clarendons we work with trusted and professionally accredited contractors who can do the work for you to make sure your home is as energy efficient as possible. Get in touch with our team today on 01737 230 821.
