Propertymark: Homeowners must be ‘incentivised not penalised’ towards net zero

Propertymark has backed delays to the Government’s net zero policies, claiming the shift to more sustainable and environmentally friendly homes should be ambitious but realistic.

The agency trade body said there is still “ever-intensifying demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly homes across the entire UK” but the aims must be achievable. 

It comes after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said previous targets requiring people to upgrade to new heating technology within their home are to be scrapped in favour of a support package available to all of up to £7,500 for installing more environmentally friendly systems.
 
In addition, previously proposed Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) targets which had planned to force people to make changes by 2035 will also now be abandoned enabling people to make the switch when their current system becomes obsolete or time expired.

Propertymark said all Government plans intended to attain an overall net zero by 2050 need to demonstrate consistency to enable planning and implementation.

Nathen Emerson, chief executive of Propertymark, said: “Propertymark believe in robust forward provision to ensure the economics of any net zero targets are fully balanced and that investors, homeowners and landlords have support and motivation to initiate the required changes.

“All new targets must be fully backed by legislation that incentivises and encourages people rather than ever penalise them.

“There needs to be crystal clear communication setting down a secure timeline of expectations, this must fully consider how new building developments will reach or exceed the proposed targets, but also how such requirements will be retro fitted to current buildings as well.”