A large proportion of Brits believe that green homes are worth paying more for, according to new research.

B&Q's survey revealed that eight out of ten British homeowners would pay more for a house that boasted energy-saving features.

Conducted four months after Home Information Packs (Hips) were introduced, the poll found that almost a tenth would scrap plans to buy a dream home if it had a low energy rating.

More than half (54 per cent) said that single glazed windows would deter them as they would prefer to opt for properties with double glazing.

B&Q's Jo Kenrick said: "With our homes responsible for over a quarter of the UK’s total carbon dioxide emissions, it is essential to increase sustainability in the home."

She added: "This increase in demand for environmentally-friendly homes will hopefully inspire more homeowners to make vital improvements, not only to make their homes more comfortable and less costly to run, but also pass on the benefits to potential buyers."

Meanwhile, earlier this month housing minister Caroline Flint announced plans for the UK's first towns dedicated to green homes.

Among the locations are Bordon-Whitehall in Hampshire and Rossington in South Yorkshire.

- Safestyle UK are one of the few double glazing companies in the UK to supply Energy Efficiency certified products as standard. Visit the Safestyle site to find out how Safestyle products are helping save the environment and your pocket!

© Adfero Ltd

Author:  Nick Appleyard

Publish our Green issues articles on your own site!

All our Green issues articles are available for republishing, provided the links in the content remain intact. You can also use our RSS news feed to republish all of our Green issues articles.