Energy performance certificates for homes – the consumer perspective

Les Shorrock and Sara Coward, BRE, United Kingdom

Keywords

Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, Energy Performance Certificate, Home Information Pack, consumer trial

Abstract

In England and Wales, from June 2007, Energy Performance Certificates will be provided as part of a Home Information Pack whenever an existing home is sold, thereby complying with the requirements of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. The design and content of these certificates was the result of extensive research and consultation which was undertaken over a period of several years. The final design was completed early in 2006 and this was then subjected to testing in a consumer trial, in order to check the understanding and views of ordinary homebuyers, and thereby ensure that it was fit for purpose. This paper presents the main findings of the trial.

In the trial, Energy Performance Certificates were issued to participating homebuyers, who were then requested to complete and return a questionnaire that tested their understanding of, and views on, the various sections of the overall Energy Performance Certificate. One key result was that most people found the (A to G format) Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact ratings contained within the certificate either easy or very easy to understand. Nobody reported finding them very difficult to understand. Equally, most respondents found the suggested measures to improve the home’s energy performance easy or very easy to understand. Nobody reported finding them very difficult to understand. Overall, the majority of respondents thought the Energy Performance Certificate was interesting, easy to understand and useful. These very positive results suggest that the introduction of Energy Performance Certificates for homes in England and Wales will be welcomed by most consumers.