HBF has sought to ‘re-launch’ its energy labelling scheme, prompted by (1) the report (NHER/Nottingham University) published showing low (2%) take-up by the housebuilding industry; and (2) the likely inclusion of requirements in a future ‘Sellers Pack’ for dwellings, being progressed under a separate ODPM initiative (the Home Information Pack Consultation published in March 2003).
Given previous signals from ODPM on the subject, it is anticipated that HBFs energy label scheme will be sufficient to meet any new legal requirement for the display of SAP Notices, etc. However the reported low uptake of the HBF Label is a worrying and potentially negative development. NHER have widely published information (in Building magazine and elsewhere) showing that as few as 2% of all new homes display a SAP Notice in the manner prescribed by current Building Regulations.
Additionally, HBF has attended a multi-stakeholder meeting at ODPM Offices looking at means by which the SAP message can be promoted to house-buyers. The prospect of additional legislation in this area was mentioned, along with other carrot and stick initiatives.
HBF has issued a reminder to Members about our energy label, through the national newsletter and other media, with a view to increasing member uptake of the scheme.
The HBF Energy Label can be accessed on this site by clicking on the SAP Notice button.