Helping Innovate Property (HIP) – Blog, Housing Market News and Articles

Energy efficiency is a hot topic in the property market. With growing concerns about climate change and rising energy costs, homes with poor Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings face increased scrutiny. 

But can landlords sell properties with low EPC ratings? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no.

Section 21 evictions, colloquially known as “no-fault” evictions, have been a contentious issue in the UK housing market for years. Introduced under the Housing Act 1988, Section 21 allows landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason, provided they give at least two months’ notice once the fixed-term tenancy has ended. While this provision offers landlords flexibility, it has been heavily criticised for contributing to housing insecurity and instability for tenants. The upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill, proposed by the UK government, seeks to abolish Section 21 evictions, signaling a significant shift in the private rental sector. This article will explore the current practice of Section 21 evictions, examine the criticisms it faces, and discuss how the Renters’ Reform Bill might reshape the future of renting in the UK.

The UK rental market is undergoing a significant transformation in 2024, driven largely by new regulatory measures that aim to reshape the dynamics between landlords and tenants. Among these, the Renters’ Reform Bill stands out as one of the most impactful changes. Introduced by the Labour government, this legislation seeks to abolish Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, enhance tenants’ rights, and improve the overall quality of rented accommodation. Coupled with stricter Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements and other regulatory updates, these changes present both challenges and opportunities for landlords.

Buying a new build property is an exciting prospect, offering the opportunity to own a home with modern designs, advanced technology, and minimal initial maintenance requirements. However, the process is not without its complexities and potential pitfalls. Prospective buyers need to be diligent and informed to ensure their investment is sound. This blog post outlines key considerations and cautions for anyone looking to purchase a new build property in the UK.

The property market is a cornerstone of the global economy, and its fluctuations have far-reaching implications for individuals, businesses, and governments. As we move through the 21st century, the landscape of the property market is set to undergo significant transformations driven by economic shifts, technological advancements, demographic changes, and evolving societal preferences. Understanding these future trends is crucial for stakeholders ranging from homebuyers and investors to policymakers and urban planners. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the anticipated future of the property market, highlighting key trends and factors that will shape its evolution.

It’s obvious that smart home concept becomes globally popular and appealing idea. It eases our life making it more tranquil and secure. A lot has been said about the many benefits house automation brings to homeowners. But have you ever thought those smart home gadgets that gradually invade the world markets can actually help you save money and energy? Well, they really can! So, enjoy your high-tech house and avail of the clever devices you have invested in!

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Are you in the preparatory stages of a new build? Maybe you’re ready to bring in an electrical contractor but are worried about how they’ll fare coming up against Part L of the Building Regs? In this article, I’ll be covering how to choose an electrical contractor for a new build that will be required to pass an air permeability test.

What is Part L

In 2006 the government passed Part L of the Building Regs setting the standards for air permeability in certain new builds and extensions in the UK. The Regulation is concerned with the conservation of fuel and power through limiting heat gains and losses via the building’s fabric. Split into 4 parts the documents lay out guidelines for both new and existing buildings.
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It’s a well-known fact that a properly maintained garage can add serious long-term value to your property. However, if fallen into disrepair, or poorly insulated, garages can also act as parasites, siphoning off your fuel energy and allowing the elements in.

First Things First

Before insulating any garage, it is important to know what that garage is going to be used for. Garages can double up as workshops, exercise spaces and games rooms, offices and studios. To know what type of insulation to use it is essential to know what it will be required to do.
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We are helped out in this day and age when it comes to wanting to switch energy suppliers, but most of us are still very cynical of the whole process. Did you know it can take as little as five minutes to switch, and you could save around £200 in the process over the whole year? Think what else you could spend that money on. Home interiors? Holiday money? Clothes? For just five minutes of your time, it’s silly not to save yourself some money.

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At the end of 2015 the Daily Mail asked a simple question: Has Britain created the most efficient home?The four-bedroom home described in the piece allegedly cost a total of £15 a year to power – including heating, lighting, cooking and water – thanks to a pump for pulling in heat, solar panelling, triple glazing and other insulation.

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M&G Real Estate, one of the UK’s largest property investors, has announced that it will install the UK’s largest shopping centre solar panel system on the roof of The Galleries shopping centre in Washington, Tyne and Wear.

The system will comprise 1,317 individual photovoltaic panels, covering an area of 41,000 sq ft – equivalent to a professional football pitch – on an otherwise unused part of the centre. New technology to save 165 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually

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