How Energy Efficient Are New Build Homes?

New build homes are significantly more energy-efficient than older properties which is saving homeowners hundreds of pounds a year on their energy bills. Investing in a new property is becoming an increasingly popular option as energy prices continue to rise and climate change becomes a more serious global issue. 

Why are new build homes more energy efficient?

Research has shown that the age of a property is the biggest single factor in the energy efficiency of homes. According to research from BuyAssociation, “84% of new-build properties were given an EPC rating of an A or a B between October and December 2021.” In comparison, 81% of older properties received an energy rating of C or D, while only 4% achieved an A or B rating.

Findings show that new build homes significantly outperform old homes when it comes to energy efficiency. New build properties are designed with energy efficiency in mind and feature newer appliances, better windows, and energy-efficient heating, cooling, and lighting systems. Building styles have improved over the years and become much more sustainable. For instance, modern layouts are more energy-efficient when compared to the floor plans of older properties.

Why is energy performance important?

Cheaper energy bills

The energy price cap was increased on the 1st of April 2022 meaning that the average household now spends between £1,971 and £2,017 on electricity per year. Global gas prices have increased to record highs in the past 6 months and wholesale prices have increased four times in the last year alone. The energy price cap is expected to increase again when it is reviewed again in October.

Most homeowners are spending a large proportion of their after-tax income on energy and struggling to afford their household bills. Properties with lower energy ratings are more likely to be affected by energy price increases, which is why energy-efficient homes are becoming more attractive to buyers. One of the biggest benefits of living in a new build home is that they are more energy-efficient, which equates to cheaper energy bills.

Reduce carbon emissions

Climate change is a hot topic and many homeowners want to take action to reduce their environmental impact. Moving to a newer property will reduce your carbon footprint as you will be using less energy than you would if you were living in an older home.

Roughly 40% of the UK’s total carbon footprint comes from buildings. As part of the government’s climate change strategy, a target has been set to make all homes in the UK achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of C by 2035. Building new energy-efficient homes will play a crucial role in helping the UK meet its climate change commitments and strive towards net-zero.

How can I check my home’s energy performance?

Arranging an EPC is the easiest way to check how energy efficient your home is. A certified assessor will visit your property and complete a thorough inspection and assessment. Your home will then be awarded an energy rating from A-G (A being the most efficient and G being the least).

The EPC report will also give you recommendations to improve your home’s energy rating. Most homeowners can improve their EPC ratings by carrying out simple home updates and renovations e.g. from an EPC D to a C. Keep reading to find out the best ways to boost your home’s energy performance.

Tips to improve your home’s energy rating

• Replace old appliances with energy-efficient models.
• Upgrade your home’s heating system with an eco-friendly boiler.
• Install double or triple glazing to insulate your home and reduce outside noise.
• Replace old or damaged windows and doors.
• Seal open chimneys to eliminate drafts.
• Insulate hot water tanks and pipes.
• Add solar panels on the roof of your property or switch to a green energy provider that generates electricity from green energy sources like wind or solar.
• Upgrade incandescent light bulbs with LEDs.
• Add extra insulation to the roof, flooring and wall cavities.

Summary

Homes in the UK are becoming more sustainable and new builds are significantly more energy-efficient than older properties. However, a lot of work is still needed to reduce housing emissions and meet net-zero targets. Living in a new build home is becoming an increasingly attractive option for homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on energy.

We operate in areas all around the United Kingdom – EPC London, EPC Birmingham, EPC Manchester, EPC Liverpool and many more locations.