Character details and grand proportions of Victorian era or pre-war-built homes may be attractive to prospective homeowners. But, these are also the homes which will require the biggest investment in order to increase the energy performance rating targets which are likely to be in place in 15 years.
Indeed, all homes may be obliged to have an Energy Performance Certificate Rating (EPC) of C or above by 2035 to meet government net-zero targets.
Therefore, homeowners living in period properties who have no plans to move in the near future, along with first-time buyers considering these homes, are being urged to look into how they can improve their EPC rating.
Scott Clay from specialist mortgage lender Together, said: “While the government’s EPC band C targets demonstrate the commitment to reaching net-zero; it is an initiative that carries a sting in the tail.
“First-time buyers hunting for a ‘character property’ need to consider this as they could find themselves having to shelve out unexpected cash to bring their older home up to the eco-standards required – and quickly.
“2035 may feel like some way off, but when you consider how long it takes the average person to save for a deposit in today’s market, its important more attention is brought to the new energy requirements early in the buying process.”
He added: “Those living in period properties and with no plans to sell are best to get a clear understanding of their home’s energy efficiency rating now and start deciding how they can start implementing eco-changes over time.”
Making improvements
Retrofitting older properties to ensure they’re more energy efficient can result in major costs for these homeowners – particularly if renovations are started without careful planning.
Together research found 79% of people owning pre-1900 homes knew they need to improve their properties to meet the Government’s zero carbon commitment – but 57% didn’t know where to start.
And whilst 20% want to install a heat pump – the average period homeowner would only be willing to spend £5,480 – a massive underbudget for what can cost up to £18,0002, said Together.
Austin Barcley, managing director of Improveasy, advised insulation was vital for these homes but this was not always straightforward.
He said: “The highest volume of heat loss is through the walls and roof of a property so by insulating first it means that any heat generated is retained within the property for longer.
“Many period properties were built using a solid wall construction type meaning the only way to insulate the walls is either internally or externally, as they have no cavity.
“Both methods are very effective, but homeowners must consider the impact they may have on the look of their properties, especially houses with period features as they may either be lost or costly to retain.”
Another consideration if the roof. Austin said homeowners should ensure their roof space is insulated adequately to 270mm to 300mm.
“If you have a ‘room in the roof’ instead of (or as well as) a loft, there is a system for insulating this area too,” he explained.
“You should also consider composite external doors; energy efficient double or triple glazed windows even consider underfloor insulation (especially above an unheated cellar or basement) to get the best energy performance from your heating system.”
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