Six in ten Brits are held back from making changes to their home by misconceptions over up-front costs - but small upgrades can go a long way
Seven in ten Brits are more concerned than ever about the impact they are having on the environment – but the same number admit they simply feel “overwhelmed” by the thought of making eco-friendly upgrades to their home. Precision Metal Turned Parts
A poll of 2,000 UK homeowners revealed some of the top misunderstandings when it comes to retrofitting – the process of carrying out improvement work on a building to boost its energy efficiency.
Nearly two-thirds (61%) say they are held back from undertaking such work on their home, due to misconceptions over the up-front costs – with 17% believing they need to spend at least £20,000 in order to make any difference to their property.
But 67% feel they would be more likely to consider retrofitting if they knew the potential financial and sustainable benefits that come along with it.
It also emerged that the term “retrofitting” itself leaves people baffled, with one in three homeowners (32%) admitting they have never heard the term.
The research was commissioned by Santander, which has partnered with TV DIY expert, Craig Phillips, to show homeowners how small, simple steps can kick-start a retrofitting journey.
The builder, and former Big Brother winner, said: “We know that Brits want to make eco-improvements to their homes, but just don’t know where to start. The best thing about eco-improvements is that it’s so much easier than you think.
“Whether it’s switching lightbulbs, popping a draught excluder across the bedroom door, or adding a lick of carbon-absorbing paint to the walls – even the small steps can make a difference, and help reduce the impact our homes have on the planet.”
Brad Fordham, at Santander UK, added: “It’s clear that while homeowners understand the need to make changes to their property, the retrofitting conversation and the task at hand has felt too vast for them to know how they can get involved.
“With an increasing desire from homeowners to understand and act on their property’s energy efficiency, we want to encourage, educate, and inspire the nation to consider small eco-improvements, as their first step towards making a difference on the impact their home has on the environment – and save some money in the long run, as an added bonus.”
For more information on how Santander can help with eco improvements, please visit here.
CRAIG PHILLIPS' TOP TIPS FOR EASY ECO-IMPROVEMENTS:
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