Most people looking to move into a new property have a checklist of things to consider alongside the cost. These concerns are primarily size, location, fittings, and when the building was constructed. Age is an especially vital factor as it affects the affordability of the home: older properties typically have poor energy efficiency and require more maintenance, both of which increase annual bills.
While they can be lacking in character when first purchased, a big advantage of buying a new build home in your area is how much they prioritise the environment. New properties have improved insulation, updated heating systems, upgraded electrics, and eco-friendly appliances, all of which significantly reduce a homeowner’s carbon footprint and lower your energy bills to boot.
Discover how new build homes are constructed in a way that prioritises the environment.
Departure from gas boilers
The UK government is committed to hitting net zero carbon emissions by 2050. As residential properties produce 60 million tonnes of CO2 annually, reducing the use of fossil fuels within the home is a key part of achieving this target. New government guidelines around housing construction state that traditional gas boilers cannot be included in new house designs from 2025.
Championing green energy
As gas boilers have been banned for future residential buildings, new homes will naturally champion green energy. For the most part, renewable energy systems such as solar panels will be used to power heating and electricity instead, while smaller properties might replace gas boilers with electric alternatives.
New green heating systems such as air source heat pumps will also become a standard feature in new build homes over time, although currently these are still expensive and specialist engineering knowledge is required for the installation process.
Better energy efficiency
The standard housing stock in the UK is some of the leakiest in Europe which means that heat escapes easily through the windows, doors, and walls. As well as focusing on eco-friendly heating systems, new build homes are constructed to reduce home much energy is required to heat the property. Cavity wall insulation, double- or triple-glazed windows, and better insulative materials in the roof all go a long way towards improving the energy efficiency.
Eco-friendly appliances
As new build homes are constructed to the meet the latest government guidelines for properties – many of which focus on sustainability – the designs include the latest eco-friendly appliances. These range from an induction hob as opposed to an old-fashioned gas stove to a charging point in the driveway for modern electric vehicles.
Other eco-friendly appliances might include water-saving features such a dual-flush toilet or low-flow showerhead and energy-saving devices like LED lightbulbs.
