90% of public want healthy homes says new research

Research commissioned by Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland shows the public’s interest levels in the home environment and how the current issues in the home centre around health and wellbeing.

A detailed study of 3,000 people found that 90% of homeowners and renters want a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing, while almost 30% would be prepared to pay more for a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing.

Saint-Gobain, a world leader in the design, production and distribution of construction materials, also found that the top three health and wellbeing issues in respondents’ existing homes were:

Homes that are too cold in the winter
Noise from adjoining neighbours
High energy bills

Stacey Temprell, Habitat Marketing Director for Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland, said: “Almost 30% of people would be prepared to pay more for a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing, while 95% of people make some effort to look after their health and wellbeing. The survey reflects the public’s concern and connection between our health and wellbeing and the spaces we occupy on a greater scale than some might have expected.

“The survey highlights the demand for improved living spaces, so the industry needs to close the gap between what occupants want from a home and what they’re actually receiving. It’s down to the industry to provide solutions to the common problems in the home, which can have a serious impact on occupant health and wellbeing, problems that can result in disturbed sleep, breathing problems (related to poor indoor air quality) and illnesses associated with cold homes.”

The survey summary can be downloaded on the MULTICOMFORT website, where you can also register to be one of the first to receive the full report and access to the survey data.

Key findings of the survey are part of the ‘Health and Wellbeing in Homes’ report produced by the UK Green Building Council. The report aims to increase the focus of the property industry on how they can positively improve the mental, social and physical health and wellbeing of home occupants, providing recommendations and evidence for the industry to follow.

To find out more about Saint-Gobain UK and Ireland, visit: www.saint-gobain.co.uk