Nick explores the historical use of lead pipes in plumbing systems, tracing their origins back to Greco-Roman times and their continued prevalence through the centuries despite growing awareness of health risks. He discusses the toxic effects of lead exposure, particularly on children and pregnant women, and emphasises the importance of replacing lead pipes in older properties. Nick shares practical advice on how to identify lead pipes, the process of applying for lead replacement grants from United Utilities, and the benefits of using accredited WaterSafe plumbers for the replacement work. The episode concludes with insights on the potential health benefits and increased property value that come from eliminating lead pipes, encouraging listeners to take action for their own properties.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Historical Use of Lead Pipes: Lead has been used in plumbing systems since Greco-Roman times due to its malleability and perceived resistance to corrosion, but it is actually soluble in water, leading to health risks.

2. Health Risks of Lead Exposure: Lead is a neurotoxin that can cause serious health issues, particularly in children and pregnant women, including developmental problems, learning disabilities, and increased risks of miscarriage and premature birth.

3. Regulations and Replacement: Most developed countries have banned the use of lead pipes for drinking water. Property owners with older homes should consider replacing lead pipes with safer materials like copper or plastic.

4. Lead Replacement Grants: United Utilities offers a grant of up to £550 for replacing lead pipes, significantly reducing the financial burden on property owners. The application process is straightforward and can be completed quickly.

5. Benefits of Replacement: Replacing lead pipes not only improves health safety for tenants but can also increase property value and rental potential, making it a worthwhile investment for property owners.

BEST MOMENTS

"Lead is actually a neurotoxin, which means it can damage the nervous system in the brain and even low levels of lead can be especially harmful to children."

"There's no safe level of lead, so any amount of lead in water can pose a health risk."

"If you think you have lead pipes in your home, it's important to take action."

"We found out you can get a lead replacement grant from United Utilities, and the grant is for £550 towards replacing pipes."

"The benefits are, firstly the health benefits to your tenants or yourself if it's your property."

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training

https://bit.ly/3FqcL4l

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training London

https://bit.ly/4isD2xs

HOST BIO

Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations.

He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems.

Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Nick discusses the essential topic of loft insulation, touching on its importance in reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency ratings. He outlines the optimal depth for insulation, which ranges from 270 to 300mm, and provides practical advice for DIY enthusiasts, including safety precautions and necessary protective equipment. Nick also covers the types of insulation materials available, such as mineral wool and rock wool, and highlights the importance of checking for existing insulation, pests, and roof conditions before installation.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The ideal depth for loft insulation is between 270 to 300mm. If the existing insulation is below this depth, it should be topped up or replaced to improve energy efficiency.

• When working in the loft, it's essential to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a face mask, safety goggles, gloves, and a disposable suit to protect against dust and potential hazards.

• Before adding new insulation, check the condition of any existing insulation. If it's damaged or insufficient, it may need to be removed and replaced.

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the loft to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to damp issues. Check existing vents and consider installing new ones if necessary.

• When selecting insulation materials, look for the R-value, which indicates thermal resistance. A higher R-value signifies better insulation performance, contributing to improved energy efficiency in the home.

BEST MOMENTS

"Loft insulation is a great way of stopping heat loss from your house. The optimum depth is around about 270 to 300mm."

"If you're going to do it yourself, you want to suit up. I always wear a face mask if I'm going in the loft and a set of safety glasses."

"You should then consider ventilation. You don't want a moisture build-up."

"If you put boards over a lot of insulation, you're going to be squashing it down and that's not ideal because then you're reducing its thermal properties."

"The higher the R value indicates the better it is, the lower it is the worse it is."

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training

https://bit.ly/3FqcL4l

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training London

https://bit.ly/4isD2xs

HOST BIO

Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations.

He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems.

Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Nick explores the intricacies of air source and ground source heat pumps, highlighting their relevance in today's push for renewable energy solutions. He simplifies the mechanics of how these systems work, detailing their components and the benefits they offer, such as reduced energy bills and environmental friendliness. Nick discusses the pros and cons of each type of heat pump, including installation costs, efficiency in varying temperatures, and the importance of professional installation.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Air source and ground source heat pumps are promoted by the government as renewable energy solutions, providing a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gas and LPG boilers.

• Air source heat pumps extract heat from the outside air, while ground source heat pumps utilise the stable temperatures of the ground. Both systems use a refrigerant to transfer heat into the home, with ground source systems generally being more efficient due to consistent underground temperatures.

• Both types of heat pumps offer benefits such as reduced energy bills, lower carbon footprints, and dual functionality for heating and cooling. However, they also come with drawbacks, including higher initial installation costs and potential efficiency decreases in extremely cold weather for air source heat pumps.

• Professional installation by accredited engineers is necessary for both air and ground source heat pumps. This ensures proper setup and compliance with regulations, which can add to the overall cost.

• Despite the higher upfront costs, both air and ground source heat pumps can lead to significant long-term savings on energy bills and have a lifespan of 20-25 years with proper maintenance, making them a worthwhile investment for sustainable heating and cooling.

BEST MOMENTS

"They were seen as a renewable source of energy. So the government is obviously promoting that these are a better way of providing heat for your property than traditional gas boilers."

"The heat pump uses a fluid called a refrigerant to absorb heat from the outside air. This air is then compressed and by compressing it, it raises its temperature."

"Ground source heat pumps are actually seen as more efficient than air source heat pumps because the temperature in your ground is more stable than the outside air."

"There is a higher initial upfront cost in installing one, and it's going to be higher than your normal gas boiler."

"With proper maintenance, they can last 20-25 years or more, these pumps. So as opposed to your average gas boiler, which is 10-15 years."

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training

https://bit.ly/3FqcL4l

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training London

https://bit.ly/4isD2xs

HOST BIO

Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations.

He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems.

Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Nick explores the differences between solar thermal panels and photovoltaic (PV) panels, clarifying common misconceptions about their functions. The episode covers the components and installation requirements for both systems, including the need for structural assessments and professional installation to ensure safety and efficiency. Nick discusses the pros and cons of each type of panel, highlighting benefits such as reduced energy bills and environmental advantages, alongside considerations like initial costs and weather dependency.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Difference Between Solar Thermal and PV Panels: Solar thermal panels are designed to collect heat from the sun to heat water, while photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity for home use.

2. Components of Solar Thermal Systems: A solar thermal system includes collectors, a heat exchanger, a storage tank, a circulation pump, and a controller, among other components, to efficiently heat water using solar energy.

3. Installation Considerations: Both solar thermal and PV panel installations require planning permission and a structural engineer's assessment to ensure the roof can support the additional weight. Professional installation is recommended for safety and compliance with regulations.

4. Pros and Cons: Solar thermal panels can reduce energy bills and have low maintenance needs, but their effectiveness depends on sunlight availability and they require a storage tank. PV panels also lower energy costs and can increase property value, but they have high initial costs and depend on weather conditions.

5. Government Incentives: There are various government incentives and grants available for both solar thermal and PV panel installations, which can help offset the initial investment costs.

BEST MOMENTS

"Solar thermal panels are basically just designed to collect heat from the sun and heat your hot water in your house."

"The effectiveness of solar thermal panels is dependent on the amount of sunlight available, which can vary depending on weather conditions."

"If you have a properly certified installed PV system on your property, it can certainly increase the value of that property."

"You need to obtain the plan of mission from your local council councillor."

"While it might be possible to install these panels yourselves, you're better off with a professional installation."

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training

https://bit.ly/3FqcL4l

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training London

https://bit.ly/4isD2xs

HOST BIO

Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations.

He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems.

Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Nick provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect during an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessment for your property. He discusses how to find a qualified energy assessor, the typical costs associated with the assessment, and the various factors that assessors evaluate, such as building construction, heating systems, insulation, and energy-efficient fixtures. Nick stresses the importance of having proper documentation and evidence to support the assessment, including invoices and photographs of energy-saving installations. He also highlights the significance of EPC ratings for landlords, covering legal requirements, tenant attraction, potential rental income, and property value.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• To locate a qualified energy assessor, use the government website by typing "Find an Energy Assessor" along with your postcode. Expect costs to range from £40 to £80 depending on the property size.

• The energy assessor will conduct a site visit lasting approximately 30 minutes to an hour, inspecting various aspects of the property, including construction type, heating systems, insulation, and windows.

• Homeowners should have documentation ready, such as invoices and photographs of any energy-efficient upgrades or insulation work done, as this evidence is crucial for accurate assessment and rating.

• The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates properties on a scale from A to G, with recommendations provided for improvements. These recommendations should be followed in a specific sequence to enhance the property's energy efficiency.

• EPCs are legally required for rental properties, with a minimum rating of E currently, moving to C by 2030. Higher EPC ratings can attract better tenants, increase rental income, and improve property value, while also demonstrating environmental responsibility.

BEST MOMENTS

"The best way, or the recommended way, is to go on the government website. If you type in Find an Energy Assessor, and type in your postcode, it will come up with a list of local assessors."

"As I said, they're looking to see if it's a solid floor or a suspended floor. They'll have a look at the heating and cooling systems."

"If you have an installation done, you know, make sure your invoice states we've installed x type of insulation under your floor."

"EPCs score between 1 to 100 with 1 being the lowest and 100 being the highest and it goes from G, E, F etc up to A."

"EPC ratings are important for landlords because they are legally required, can attract tenants, increase rental income, reduce energy costs, and improve property value."

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training

https://bit.ly/3FqcL4l

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training London

https://bit.ly/4isD2xs

HOST BIO

Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations.

He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems.

Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business

Today, Nick discusses the upcoming launch of RD SAP 10, a significant update to the UK's Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure (RDSAP) for Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). Set to launch on June 15th, RD SAP 10 introduces approximately 30 changes aimed at improving the accuracy and relevance of EPCs for existing homes. Nick highlights key updates, including the inclusion of new technologies like battery storage and small-scale hydro, enhanced data collection methods, and more detailed assessments of windows and roof rooms.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The RD SAP 10, launching on June 15, is a significant update to the UK's Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure (RDSAP) for measuring Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for existing homes, aimed at improving accuracy and relevance.

• The new method requires more detailed measurements, including the precise counting of windows and the assessment of roof rooms, which will lead to more accurate EPC ratings.

• RD SAP 10 will allow for the inclusion of various energy technologies such as battery storage, photovoltaic diverters, and small-scale hydro, reflecting their growing presence in UK homes and improving the assessment of energy efficiency.

• The updated EPCs will provide clearer and more tailored recommendations for energy improvements, including a push for heat pumps in well-insulated properties, aligning with the UK's low carbon heating solutions.

• Assessors will face increased workloads due to the new requirements, which may lead to higher costs for landlords as assessors charge more for their services. This change is expected to affect the availability of assessors in the market.

BEST MOMENTS

"RDSAP 10 is coming in. This is the most significant update to the UK's reduced data standard assessment procedure in over a decade."

"Now it'll allow you to put in the type of battery storage, PV diverters, and small scale hydro, providing a more accurate picture of properties' energy efficiency."

"The problem I have with that, air source heat pumps, they're not as efficient as ground source heat pumps."

"There's going to be an increase in the cost of the EPC assessment. Assessors are going to have to charge you more because they're spending more time doing it."

"I appreciate that some people don't believe in climate change, but I think there's definitely something happening."

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training

https://bit.ly/3FqcL4l

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training London

https://bit.ly/4isD2xs

HOST BIO

Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations.

He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems.

Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business

In this episode, Nick takes a look at the distinctions between Energy Performance Assessments (EPA) and Retrofit Energy Performance Assessments (REPA). He explains that while both assessments evaluate a building's energy performance, the EPA offers a standardised energy rating with general recommendations, whereas the REPA provides a more comprehensive analysis tailored to a building's unique characteristics. Nick highlights the benefits of conducting a REPA, including detailed recommendations for energy efficiency upgrades, cost-benefit analyses, and potential funding options. He emphasises the importance of these assessments in improving energy efficiency, reducing carbon footprints, and enhancing indoor comfort, ultimately leading to better rental income and property value.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• An Energy Performance Assessment (EPA) provides a standardised energy rating and general recommendations for improving energy efficiency, while a Retrofit Energy Performance Assessment (REPA) offers a more detailed evaluation, identifying specific retrofit measures tailored to a building's unique characteristics.
• The REPA involves a thorough inspection of the building's structure, systems, and energy consumption, utilising software tools for modeling energy use, which goes beyond the standard EPA assessment.
• A key component of the REPA is the cost-benefit analysis, which evaluates potential savings and environmental benefits of various retrofit measures, helping property owners prioritise improvements based on feasibility and impact.
• Conducting a REPA can lead to reduced energy consumption and bills, improved indoor comfort and air quality, compliance with regulations, and potentially higher property values and rental income.
• It is crucial to engage specifically trained retrofit assessors and coordinators for a REPA, as they provide in-depth analysis and tailored recommendations that standard EPA assessors may not offer.

BEST MOMENTS

"The EPA, which produces the EPC, provides a standardised energy rating for your building. It's quite a simple assessment."

"A retrofit energy performance assessment or REPA is to identify specific retrofit measures to improve a building's energy efficiency."

"The REPA delves deeper into the building's specific needs and offers tailored recommendations for energy efficiency improvements."

"Energy efficiency homes can actually attract better money when you sell them and also possibly improve rental income."

"If you've got a property that is below a C, it’s an investment into the future of that property."

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training

https://bit.ly/3FqcL4l

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training London

https://bit.ly/4isD2xs

HOST BIO

Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations.

He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems.

Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business

In this episode, Nick takes a look at the UK's Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations (EPBR) and their implications for property owners and developers. He explains the importance of energy performance certificates (EPCs) and energy performance assessments (EPAs), highlighting the minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) that new buildings must meet. Nick discusses the benefits of improving energy efficiency, such as reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy costs, and creating healthier living environments. He also outlines various government incentives and schemes aimed at encouraging energy-efficient upgrades, particularly for low-income households.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The EPBR sets minimum energy efficiency standards for both new and existing buildings in the UK, requiring energy performance certificates (EPCs) for properties being sold or rented.

• New buildings must meet specific MEES to ensure energy efficiency, which includes undergoing an energy performance assessment (EPA) to determine their energy efficiency rating.

• Properties with an EPC rating below E are required to undertake measures to improve their energy performance, with future regulations aiming for a minimum rating of C for rental properties.

• Various government schemes, such as the Warm Homes Local Grant and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, provide financial support for improving energy efficiency in homes, particularly for low-income households.

• Enhancing energy efficiency not only reduces carbon emissions and energy costs but also creates healthier living environments for tenants, potentially increasing property values and tenant satisfaction.

BEST MOMENTS

"The UK's primary legislation is the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations. It sets out standards for the energy performance of both new and existing buildings."

"Buildings with an EPC rating below E are subject to energy efficiency improvement obligations requiring them to undertake measures to improve their energy performance."

"I have my own views on electric boilers. I don't think they're as good as gas boilers yet. I think there's a long way to go."

"EPCs play a crucial role in promoting energy efficient buildings and reducing greenhouse gas emissions."

"Let's embrace these EPCs. It's something that we can use to see what improvements we need."

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training

https://bit.ly/3FqcL4l

The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training London

https://bit.ly/4isD2xs

HOST BIO

Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations.

He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems.

Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business