As a homeowner or someone looking to buy a new home, one of the factors you must consider is the proximity of an electricity substation to your property. Electricity substations are facilities that convert high voltage electricity to lower voltages for distribution to homes and businesses. While they are important in providing electricity to households, they could potentially impact the value of your property. In this article, we’ll explore the potential effects of an electricity substation on property values in the UK and the importance of getting an EMF survey done.
The Impact of an Electricity Substation on Property Values
The location of an electricity substation near a property can have a significant impact on its value. This is because electricity substations can create visual and noise pollution, which can be unappealing to prospective buyers.
The potential negative effects of an electricity substation on a property’s value depend on a variety of factors, including the distance between the substation and the property, the type of substation, and the level of EMF emissions.
In the UK, the value of properties located close to electricity substations is typically lower than those further away. According to a study conducted by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), properties located within 50 meters of an electricity substation could see a reduction in value of up to 15%. However, the actual impact on property value can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case.
Another factor that could potentially affect property values is the type of substation. Some substations are underground, and therefore, have a lesser impact on property values than those that are above ground. Underground substations are typically located in urban areas where space is limited. Above-ground substations, on the other hand, are typically located in rural areas, where space is not an issue.
The Importance of an EMF Survey
An EMF (electromagnetic field) survey is a type of survey that measures the strength of electromagnetic fields in and around a property. Electromagnetic fields are generated by the flow of electricity and are present in every home. However, the presence of an electricity substation near a property can increase the strength of electromagnetic fields.
The strength of electromagnetic fields can potentially impact human health, particularly with long-term exposure. As such, it is important to have an EMF survey conducted to ensure that the levels of electromagnetic fields in and around your property are safe.
In addition to assessing the safety of the property, an EMF survey can also help to determine the potential impact of an electricity substation on property values. The survey can help to identify the strength of electromagnetic fields in and around the property, and the distance between the property and the substation. This information can then be used to determine the potential impact on property values.
It is important to note that an EMF survey should only be conducted by a qualified and experienced professional. The surveyor should be able to provide a detailed report that outlines the findings of the survey and provides recommendations for mitigating any potential risks.
How to Mitigate the Effects of an Electricity Substation
If you’re concerned about the potential negative effects of an electricity substation on your property, there are several steps you can take to mitigate these effects. One option is to plant trees and shrubs around the property to create a visual barrier between the substation and the property. This can help to reduce the impact of the substation on the property’s value.
Another option is to invest in soundproofing for the property. This can help to reduce the impact of noise pollution from the substation, making the property more appealing to prospective buyers.
If you’re planning to sell your property, it is important to disclose the presence of an electricity substation to potential buyers. This can help to manage expectations and reduce the potential for disputes or legal action in the future.
In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate with the electricity company to have the substation moved further away from the property. However, this is often a difficult and lengthy process, and may not be possible in all cases.
In summary, the presence of an electricity substation near a property can have a significant impact on its value. While the actual impact can vary depending on a variety of factors, it is important to consider the potential effects when buying or selling a property. An EMF survey can help to determine the potential impact of an electricity substation on property values, and steps can be taken to mitigate any negative effects. If you’re concerned about an electricity substation near your property, it is important to consult with a qualified professional to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the location of an electricity substation near a property can have a significant impact on its value. The impact on property values can vary depending on factors such as the distance between the substation and the property, the type of substation, and the level of EMF emissions. An EMF survey is important to determine the potential impact of an electricity substation on property values and to ensure that the levels of electromagnetic fields in and around the property are safe. If you’re concerned about an electricity substation near your property, it is important to consult with a qualified professional to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
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