While upgrading windows was slightly more popular than installing roof insulation, mentioned by four in five (80%) surveyors, both were well ahead of the third most popular energy-efficient measure, wall insulation, which was mentioned by almost one-third (31%) of surveyors.
The research also revealed that there are a number of energy-saving measures which are less commonly seen but may still provide notable savings for consumers over the long term. These measures include solar panels (19%), air source heat pumps (17%), and smart energy meters (15%).
Experts have suggested it typically takes about 15 years to recoup your installation costs for solar panels, so they may be more suitable for homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for a longer duration. Similarly, the payback period on an air source heat pump is around 12 years. When it comes to smart energy meters, the technology can help homeowners keep track of their energy usage, with accurate bills, which can be particularly helpful for consumers concerned about rising energy costs.
Evolving consumer sentiment
Buyers are already placing a notable price premium on energy-efficient, sustainable housing. Further research from Legal & General suggests that there has been a 34% uptick in searches for eco-friendly homes and buyers are now willing to pay a 10.5% price premium for a low-carbon property.
Legal & General’s Equity Economy Report also found an increased interest in using equity from the property to improve energy efficiency with 13% of the surveyed homeowners using the money to pay for green measures to improve energy use.
Spiralling gas and electricity bills may well be driving interest in energy-efficient home improvements. However, although the government has proposed that all rental properties will need an EPC rating of ‘C’ or above by 2025 for new tenancies and 2028 for existing tenancies, there are currently no regulations for residential properties to increase their home’s EPC rating.
Trudy Woolf, Sustainability Director, Legal & General Surveying Services, said: "Having polled our own team of surveyors, these findings highlight that buyers and owners are becoming increasingly conscious of the energy efficiency of their homes. It’s great to see that many homeowners are already thinking about installing energy-efficient measures which are cost-effective – this is something we expect will continue to rise in prominence as consumers develop a greater understanding of energy efficiency.
“While it’s always important that prospective homeowners secure a professional survey in order to make an informed decision on their purchase, a survey can also provide insight for consumers into the energy efficiency of a home and any green home improvements which have been carried out already or would be easy to install.”
