HBF urges Lib Dems to correct “inaccuracies” in manifesto

HBF has called upon the Liberal Democrats to correct “worrying inaccuracies” in their election manifesto.

In a letter to leader Ed Davey, HBF has pointed out the party’s claim that “newly built homes are often energy inefficient and environmentally unfriendly”. It refers the party leader to government data, showing that almost nine in ten new builds achieve an A or B energy rating.

On average, according to HBF, new homes produce 61% less carbon than older properties. And new homes are powered by 57% less energy, saving the home owner £140 million a month in running costs.

HBF’s letter also highlights the industry’s commitment to the environmental agenda through the Future Homes Hub and the progress made in improving new build homes’ thermal and energy performance.

The Liberal Democrat’s manifesto also states that “too many new houses are built as leasehold”. HBF has rejected this claim in its letter, again referring to government data showing that more than 99% of all new houses are sold as freehold.

HBF is appealing to the party to publish a corrected version of its manifesto, published on June 10, “to ensure voters are well-informed and avoid letting down those at the …