Energy efficiency is becoming an increasingly important part of the housing market, not only because of environmental concerns, but because of the impact on household bills. An analysis of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) across the UK shows the percentage of homes in each region rated A, B or C, with A being the most energy efficient.
London leads the way, with 59% of homes achieving one of the three highest ratings, closely followed by Scotland at 58%. London’s position is partly explained by its large number of flats, apartments and more recently constructed developments. These homes are generally smaller, easier to heat and built to more modern energy-efficiency standards.
Scotland’s figure is particularly interesting. However, direct comparisons should be treated with some care, as the EPC assessment methods, housing policies and reporting systems used in Scotland are not always identical. At the other end of the table, Northern Ireland has just 36% of homes rated A to C. Its older housing stock, greater number of rural and detached properties, and continued reliance on oil-fired heating all contribute to the difference.
Across England and Wales, most regions sit within a relatively narrow range of 48% to 52%. That suggests the type and age of a property can often be more significant than its geographical location.
For buyers, an efficient home may mean lower running costs. For sellers and landlords, improvements such as insulation, modern heating systems and better glazing could make a property more appealing, particularly while energy costs remain high.
Here in Bolton, an EPC should therefore be viewed as more than another document in the sales or lettings process. It can provide a useful indication of what a home may cost to run, as well as where future improvements could be made. This is important because while the EPC rating is not at the top of most buyer’s wish lists, as energy becomes more expensive, that could change in the future. If you would like to discuss anything to do with EPCs and the local property market, do not hesitate to pick up the phone.
