How Green is Your Home
| Published: 17th December 2007 14:19 |
Home Information Packs (HIPs) and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) were introduced into the Housing market on a phased basis from August 1 2007, and from December 14th 2007 all properties that are sold will require a HIP and an EPC. The Energy Performance Certificate is a major part of the HIP and many people feel confused as to exactly what it will mean for them and their house value.
The Energy Saving Trust currently offers a free Home Energy Check (HEC), which shows how your home might be rated in a full Energy Performance Certificate as part of a Home Information Pack. The report can be sent to your home and gives you a detailed breakdown of your carbon emissions, energy use and simple ways in which you can improve your home to make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Many measures will pay for themselves in reduced heating bills within the first two years of installation.
Included in your report will be information on approximate costs for all measures, the estimated savings per year and phone numbers to call for free impartial advice on energy efficiency and which grant schemes would most suit your situation.
The Home Energy Check can be completed via the following link: www.est.org.uk/check/
