With the escalating challenges of climate change and dwindling natural resources, everyone now understands the importance of reducing their carbon footprint, and for many this starts at home. Deborah Richards, Founder and Managing Partner of Maddisons Residential, highlights the need for energy efficient homes, both in new builds and in adapting our existing housing stock.

The growing demand for “Eco-homes”

As the world grapples with the adverse effects of excessive energy consumption, the emphasis on sustainable practices has intensified, and by combining cutting-edge technologies with environmentally conscious design principles, modern homes dramatically reduce the need for excessive heating, cooling and lighting.

The difference good insulation can make to household energy bills

For those who follow me on social media, you will know that I have recently built my own home. This was the realisation of a long-held dream: creating a home that exactly meets my family’s needs, but equally – as a permanently cold soul – fulfilled my desire to live in a warm, energy efficient home.

I chose to build an ICF house – Insulated Concrete Formwork – partly because of its energy efficiency. The cost of my utility bills has plummeted, but furthermore, I am warmer than I ever was in my previous 1920s home.

Energy-efficient homes offer real sustainable solutions

Energy-efficient homes serve as beacons of innovation, driving the development and adoption of green technologies. From solar panels and energy-efficient appliances to advanced insulation materials, these homes showcase the potential of sustainable solutions. This not only translates to lower utility bills for homeowners but also a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Insulating your period home

Tunbridge Wells is a beautiful town, characterised by period properties that will not readily conform with energy efficiency. With more challenging seasons, buyers are increasingly scrutinising the energy efficiency of properties they are considering. It’s therefore helpful to know that measures can be taken to improve even the oldest homes (I visited a Victorian house recently that had been completely internally bubble wrapped, and boy was it warm!). So, I would encourage anyone to investigate further, there are a range of options including  draught-proofing, floor insulation and insulating pipes. Ultimately, we all want to help the planet, and our pockets.

If you want advice and help on buying or selling a property in or around Tunbridge Wells, please contact us as our experienced team would love to help.