Agents may be forced to push energy efficiency

Posted: 26 Jan 2007 10:45:44 GMT

Estate agents could be required to supply energy efficiency ratings to potential buyers when they view a property, new government guidelines have proposed

Estate agents could be required to supply energy efficiency ratings to potential buyers when they view a property, new government guidelines have proposed.

The proposed energy performance certificates (EPCs) would be among the first documents that would be required in Home Information Packs (Hips).

"Most people have no idea about things like the lagging in the loft when they buy a new home," said housing minister Yvette Cooper.

"But this will tell people how they can save money on their fuel bills and cut their carbon emissions at the same time."

The government is also currently in negotiations with lenders about providing "green" mortgages that would offer financial incentives for the most efficient homes.

Communities minister Ruth Kelly said that the government would try to steer energy efficiency with a mixture of information, incentives and market choice.

The EPC scheme would also be linked to council tax rebates offered on the most energy efficient homes.

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