Higher energy prices are starting to influence people's choices of property, according to a new survey.

Higher energy prices are starting to influence people's choices of property, according to a new survey.

Yorkshire Bank data shows that one in four buyers and one in three first-time buyers would not buy a property if it was energy inefficient due to spiralling energy costs.

Energywatch, the independent gas and electricity consumer watchdog, says that electricity and gas prices have risen by 30 per cent and 40 per cent since 2003. It has also reported that British Gas is set to increase prices by a further 25 per cent.

"Households are now having to fork out hundreds of pounds more each year to pay for their gas and electricity than they did three years ago – a figure which will be even higher for homes which aren't energy efficient," says Gary Lumby, head of retail at the Yorkshire Bank.

Mr Lumby said that first-time buyers tended to spend a higher proportion of their income on monthly mortgage repayments, meaning their energy costs "are an even bigger issue".

He advises buyers to check the quality of windows, the insulation and check the surveyor's report to see if homes have cavity wall insulation.