The EPC needs to be introduced under European Union law by 2009 but will come into affect in the UK next year as part of the roll-out of Home Information Packs (HIPs).
AHIPP believed its introduction would help highlight where homeowners can make improvements to their homes, which would not only improve the environmental impact but also save them money.
Mike Ockenden, director-general of AHIPP, commented: “Currently, 27 per cent of this country’s CO2 emissions comes from residential property. The introduction of the EPC will offer an opportunity for us to tackle this figure and could prove to be a catalyst in significantly reducing carbon emission across the UK.”
While the EPC will highlight the energy efficiency of a person’s property, AHIPP was also keen to stress the cost savings for people by implementing the findings of energy performance inspectors.
It claimed many people are put off by the initial expense but a typical three-bedroom semi installing loft and cavity wall insulation and a boiler jacket could recoup the cost in three years.
Ockenden added: “It is a common misconception that it could prove costly for consumers to make any changes to their homes without incurring huge expenses that will not be recoupable for many years. However, there are a number of changes that consumers can make that will prove very cost effective.”
David Mead, managing director at Flexible-mortgage.net, commented: “Most consumers are ignorant of the CO2 emissions coming from their home so if the EPC highlights where improvements might be made, it could save you money and make you think about the impact on future generations.”
