9
Sep
Energy Performance Certificates and Home Information Packs
Average four bedroom homes are getting an 'E' energy rating,
according to a survey from the introduction of Energy Performance
Certificates (EPCs) and Home Information Packs (HIPs).
New information six weeks after the launch of EPCs and HIPs,
shows that average four bedroom homes and above could save hundreds
of pounds off heating, lighting, and water bills.
Most homes are receiving an 'E' rating in their EPCs on the A-G
scale, but this could potentially rise to a 'C' if consumers
undertake measures recommended in the certificates, such as loft
and cavity wall insulation.
The Government is today extending EPCs and HIPs to three bedroom
homes so more buyers will get the same information to cut carbon
emissions and reduce fuel bills.
The early findings come from a snapshot survey of energy
assessors and EPCs provided since the launch of HIPs, which show
average 4 bedroom homes are being rated 'E' and could typically
save £180 on heating, £60 on lighting and £30 on hot
water bills, a year.
The top 5 recommendations given by assessors for improving
energy efficiency have been: cavity wall insulation, changing to
low energy lighting, putting thermostatic valves on radiators, loft
insulation, and double glazing.
The introduction HIPs is already starting to reduce costs and
improve transparency in the housing market. More than 85 local
authorities have reduced their search costs, in some cases by more
than £100.
The average pack is taking around 5 days to compile, with major
estate agents charging in the region of £300 plus VAT for a
HIP, on an upfront
or deferred basis - £200 to £250 of which is already paid
under the current system.
Communities Minister Iain Wright said: "Families buying four
bedroom homes are getting clear information which shows how they
can save hundreds of pounds on their fuel bills and cut carbon
emissions too. It is important that this should be available for
people buying three bedroom homes as well".
Typical 'green grants' of £100 to £300 for energy
saving improvement like loft insulation are available to many home
owners from energy suppliers as part of their legal obligations
introduced by government to improve energy efficiency. Consumers
can now access details of green grants and offers by tapping in
their postcode on the Energy Saving Trust's website.
Energy suppliers are also providing direct information about
grants to home buyers when they sign up to an energy contract.
Notes to Editors
1. EPCs and HIPs were introduced for four bedroom homes and
above on August 1, and are today being rolled out to three bedroom
homes. A further announcement on rolling out the packs to the rest
of the market will be made in due course. Our key criteria will be
ensuring a smooth implementation and that the necessary energy
assessors, both nationally and regionally, are in place.
Public Enquiries: 020 7944 4400
News Releases: www.communities.gov.uk
Back to Top