In light of the imminent introduction of Home information packs (Hips), it is in homeowners' interests to make their property more energy efficient, experts have said.

Hips will be phased in from August 1st 2007 and will contain an energy performance certificate designed to provide information on a property's energy efficiency based on factors such as insulation, double glazing, and the type of heating system in use.

Andrew Leech, consultant to the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC), said that houses will effectively be sold on the basis of how energy efficient they are.

"Certainly energy efficiency certificates will be part of the deal when you sell your house," he explained.

"If your home doesn't hit the rating then you're going to have trouble selling it. So it's in the homeowner's interest to keep up to speed with home improvements which are bringing energy efficiency measures into the home," he claimed.

Mr Leech is confident that Hips will affect the way in which homeowners perform home improvements.

"If you can get a renewable energy source added to your building, such as a solar thermal panel…or a wind turbine, then this will help with the future sale of properties because it will boost their authenticity in terms of the energy saving certificate," he added.

Making home improvements can help increase the market value of a property. Click here for a selection of available products.

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Author:  Joanne McCabe

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