Enviromentally Friendly

Question: I'm selling my house and have got someone coming round to do a HIPs assessment next week - what should I expect? Answer: Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a crucial part of the Home Information Pack assessment, which all houses on the market are now legally required to have. They tell you how energy efficient a home is on a scale of A-G, similar to white goods, with the most energy efficient homes (which in turn should have the lowest fuel bills) in band A. The Assessor...Read Full Story

With energy efficiency and green technologies at the forefront of everyone's minds we're all thinking about how we can improve the green performance of our homes. The usual methods of improving heat retention with double glazing and insulation as well as the possibility of utilising some green technologies such as boilers are something we can all do. However when it comes to building a new home, take a look at these magnificent green design masterpieces. Combining such luxury with such energy...Read Full Story

It only took 100 years, but it seems that Chicago city planners are finally taking the last major recommendation from Daniel Burnham's plan for Chicago's lakefront. Burnham's 1909 vision is being realized in an effort to "go green." Essentially a 2-mile long breakwater surrounding Monroe Harbor, the proposed 'Eco-Bridge' will provide; more parks & recreational space, skyline views, and  much needed 'green' electricity for Chicago. Raised in Chicago, famed architect and urban planner Daniel...Read Full Story

Energy efficient measures such as loft insulation and cavity wall insulation  which improve a home’s performance are believed by many to improve the saleability of a home. A study by the Energy Saving Trust revealed that half of UK homeowners believe homes with greener features are easier to sell. Even as the property market becomes stagnant, the EST survey revealed that 56 per cent of householders would be willing to pay extra for homes equipped with energy efficiency measures. The...Read Full Story

Vulnerable residents in Scotland could soon have home insulation installed to help reduce their outgoings. The devolved government has announced plans that will, if approved, see approximately 48,000 people provided with insulation, draught-proofing materials, a new central heating system or repairs to make their property more eco-friendly . Housing and communities minister Alex Neil said: “We know many vulnerable people will have a lack of income but will need to heat their homes at a higher...Read Full Story