Home Buyers Overlook Energy Efficiency, Risking Future Regret and Costs

Home Hunters Often Neglect Energy Efficiency, Leading to Regret

Most people moving home prioritise garden space and property size, but research shows many overlook one key element that could cost them in the long run. A survey of 1,000 adults who have moved within the past five years reveals that half of home buyers admit they can't look past the aesthetics of a new property, yet later regret giving little or no thought to the energy rating.

Top Priorities vs. Overlooked Factors

The study, commissioned by British Gas, found that the most frequent considerations when searching for a property to buy or rent were size and garden space, followed by local amenities, broadband availability, and decent neighbours. However, 38% of respondents admitted they wished they had taken energy-efficient features more seriously during initial viewings.

Surprisingly, having a driveway and internal storage space ranked higher than checking whether the property had a reliable heating system and high-quality insulation. The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating was similarly overlooked as a priority, despite its importance for long-term cost savings and environmental impact.

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Seasonal Influences on Property Checks

The research discovered that the time of year significantly influences what people prioritise when moving home. Nearly three-quarters (73%) said they would be likely to check the heating system in winter, compared with just 39% in summer. Likewise, 64% would inspect the boiler in winter, versus 44% in summer.

Peter Knowles, a service and repair engineer at British Gas, acknowledged that moving home can be daunting given the sheer amount to consider. Nevertheless, he cautioned that people should always assess the energy efficiency of a new property before reaching a decision.

Expert Advice on Energy Assessments

Knowles said: "While we understand how important the aesthetics and kerb appeal of a property are, it's concerning to see that these factors often come above energy efficiency when deciding on a new home." He noted that checks should look at the quality of insulation throughout the property, the condition of the boiler and heating system, and the overall EPC rating.

"Prioritising these checks can help avoid large, costly repairs down the line while also reducing bills in the long term," he added. The study also revealed that 36% admitted they lack confidence when it comes to checking heating systems in the first place.

Seeking Second Opinions and Growing Eco-Consciousness

Nearly three-quarters (73%) said they have sought a second opinion on a property due to this lack of confidence, with 31% turning to their partner and 24% seeking advice from a friend in the trades. While the research suggests that those moving home often place greater importance on cosmetic factors over energy efficiency, 71% said eco considerations have grown more significant to them over the past decade.

Almost two-thirds (64%) said they would be willing to pay more for a property that is already energy efficient. This shift indicates a growing awareness, but the survey highlights that many still fail to act on this during the buying process.