RICS launches consultation on resi retrofitting revolution
Agent trade body says that there is a need for for trusted, professional advice that customers can rely on when it comes to meeting energy targets.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has launched an eight-week consultation on how to best retrofit UK homes and will create a new standard.
The RICS Residential Retrofit Standard for 2023 is being developed in response to a demand for high quality, residential retrofit advice, spurred on by increasingly high energy prices and UK government net-zero targets.
RETROFIT STANDARD
The Retrofit Standard will create a framework within which RICS members can advise customers on retrofit options in homes across the UK, in turn supporting the nationwide effort to decarbonise the residential property sector.
Results from the most recent RICS Residential Market Survey shows energy efficient homes can be more desirable and can help to retain a property’s value.
Other benefits to retrofitting a home include lower energy consumption.
A consumer survey carried out in July 2023 by RICS and YouGov showed that 36% of homeowners would not know how to go about making their homes more environmentally friendly.
Eight out of 10 (78%) respondents also stated that they would find it helpful if their surveyor could offer retrofitting advice when purchasing a property.
TRUSTED
RICS says that the figures highlight the need for trusted, professional advice that customers can rely on.
Antony Parkinson, RICS Senior Property Specialist, says: “UK homes are not as energy efficient as they could or should be.
“This needs to change and we have to act now. Improving the energy efficiency needs to be incorporated into the ongoing maintenance of our homes. Efficient homes use less energy which will save money and help save the planet.
“We all have a role to play and by working together we can make a difference”.
