A guide to making your property more energy efficient for sale
Improving your property’s energy efficiency reduces environmental impact and makes it more attractive to buyers, potentially increasing its value. Buyers are increasingly prioritising energy-efficient homes due to lower utility costs and environmental awareness. Here’s how you can make your property more energy-efficient before putting it on the market.
Conduct an Energy Assessment
Start by understanding your property’s current energy efficiency level.
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Review your EPC rating and recommendations to identify areas for improvement.
Tip: An improved EPC rating can increase your property’s appeal to buyers.
Insulate your property
Proper insulation is one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency.
- Loft insulation: Prevents heat loss and reduces heating costs.
- Wall insulation: Consider solid wall insulation to enhance thermal performance.
- Floor insulation: Useful for older properties with suspended floors.
Upgrade windows and doors
Prevent drafts and improve thermal efficiency by upgrading windows and doors.
- Double or triple glazing: Reduces heat loss and noise.
- Sealing drafts: Install draft-proofing strips around windows and doors.
Install energy-efficient heating systems
Modern heating systems can significantly lower energy consumption.
- Upgrade your boiler: Replace an old boiler with an A-rated condensing boiler.
- Smart thermostats: Install smart heating controls to give buyers more control over energy usage.
- Consider renewable energy: Solar panels or heat pumps can be a long-term investment and a strong selling point.
Switch to energy-efficient lighting
Replacing traditional lighting with energy-efficient alternatives is a quick win.
- LED bulbs: LED lights consume significantly less energy and last longer.
- Smart lighting: Offer options for automated or remote-controlled lighting.
Highlight your efforts in marketing
Ensure your energy efficiency upgrades are front and centre in your property listing.
- Mention EPC improvements: Highlight any upgrades that improved the EPC rating.
- Feature green additions: Showcase solar panels, smart systems, or insulation improvements.
