Renovating empty homes could 'save money and the environment'

Property waiting lists could be slashed and carbon emissions lowered in Britain's homes if the government renovated empty houses, according to the British Property Federation (BPF).

Recent studies have found that remodelling an empty house to make it liveable requires only a third of the energy which a new build would use.

The BPF claims that using this method would help the government meet its climate change targets, as well as providing much-needed accommodation.

Bringing older properties up to current standards could help people waiting for accommodation to enjoy the benefits that eco-friendly homes bring, such as a reduction in energy prices and home insurance to cover the property.

BPF chief executive Liz Peace said: "Renovating empty homes is an opportunity for the government to get people off housing waiting lists. It will also save them money and reduce the burden of over-stretched councils.

The recommendation comes in the same week that saw green British firm SolarCentury tell Business Green magazine that they predict a massive increase in green jobs in the UK.

By David Steel
 

Date : 12/08/2010
Category: Flooring home improvement news