Every home buyer has their own wish list of ideal features - off-street parking, a big garden, a converted loft or even a hot-tub on the roof. But how important is it that your new home is eco friendly?

Home buyers are increasingly taking into accoutn the 'green' features of a new property.

This doesn't necessarily mean that all its power comes from a wind turbine in the back garden, but energy efficiency can bring significant financial savings, as well as having a positive environmental impact.

New houses are given an Eco-Homes rating.

This is a Government-backed scheme whereby new buildings and developments are rated on a scale ranging from pass' to excellent'.

This rating not only takes into account energy and water efficiency but also assesses the property in terms of its land use, ecology, pollution and use of sustainable materials.

This rating system makes it easy for people buying a new property to make informed decisions based on its environmental impact, but even older properties can be eco-friendly.

For buyers looking at older houses, it is important to talk to the seller. For example, does the house have cavity-wall insulation? Or how much are their average heating bills?

Here is a quick checklist of just a few of the areas you may want to consider:

  • Get a survey A full structural survey will highlight any potential problems and the surveyor may be able to advise on how the property could be made more energy efficient.
  • Damp Ask for proof of any damp course and check inside and outside walls for any signs of damp, mould or mildew. Look behind furniture and picture frames to check there is nothing lurking behind.
  • Water efficiency Is there a water meter installed? Is there a water-efficient flush on the toilets?
  • Insulation As well as cavity-wall insulation, check whether the loft is properly insulated. Lagging pipes and ensuring the hot water tank has an insulating jacket can also save money, as well as energy.
  • Doors and windows Check the seals on doors and windows are good enough to prevent draughts. Check that woodwork is in good condition and that there are no gaps which can let heat escape. Double or even triple glazing can not only improve insulation but also block out noise pollution from busy roads.
  • Appliances If appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers are included in the price, check their energy efficiency rating'. Appliances rated A' offer the best energy savings and although they may be more expensive to buy, their running costs can be much lower.
  • Boilers replacing an old boiler with a high-efficiency condensing boiler can save nearly a third on fuel bills and reduce energy wastage.
  • Heat and light Although it is not always possible, using solar panels or silicon cells will produce clean, safe and environmentally friendly energy. Making use of sustainable energy sources will not only reduce the impact on the environment but also reduce your bills.

For more information on energy efficiency visit the web site www.saveenergy.co.uk