One leading estate agent is predicting that energy efficiency will become increasingly important to the housing market, due in large part to the expansion of the government's Home Information Pack (Hip) scheme.

Hips will be obligatory for all home-sellers as of December 14th, meaning anyone looking to buy a property will now receive a personalised Energy Performance Certificate relating to the dwelling.

Such certificates outline how energy efficient a given home is, measuring in particular the impact of insulating technologies such as double glazing and on-site renewable energy sources like solar panels.

By issuing a fridge-style efficiency rating ranging from 'A' to 'G', the scheme will make it easier for prospective homeowners to select a property based on its environmental and cost-saving benefits.

Commenting on the extension of the Hips scheme, Ryan Doyle from Hamptons International's Chiswick branch told the Daily Telegraph that "buyers may begin to take more notice of [information in EPCs]".

His prediction echoes comments by the National Home Improvement Council that suggested energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important to Brits in the wake of relentless warnings over climate change.

© Adfero Ltd

Author:  Joanne McCabe

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