Lack of web connectivity a key reason for ‘wasted space’ in the home

A study based on 2,000 homeowners has found that the average British home contains £34,000 worth of 'wasted space', which equates to about 15 per cent of a typical British dwelling.

Interestingly, the study found that the lack of web connectivity was one of the key reasons for unused space in the home. In fact, 63 per cent of those surveyed said they would be more likely to use the space if there was a stronger Wi-Fi signal.

The study found that the most unused spaces in the home included the attic, spare rooms and the garden shed. The reasons for the unused spaces included storage areas, or forgetting about them resulting in disuse. Based on the average house price of £226,906, the unused space would amount to thousands of pounds.

A massive 96 per cent said internet connectivity in the home was a critical consideration, and one quarter would be willing to pay around £12,000 more for a house with no Wi-Fi blackspots, which accounts for roughly 5% of the average house price.

Home design expert Linda Barker said: “We literally can’t afford to waste space; we’re moving house less than ever before and it’s becomingly increasingly important to make the most of what we have."

Installation of fast and powerful Wi-Fi would reach more areas of the home and thereby convert the unused spaces into better connected, hang-out areas.

When choosing a new home, those surveyed also said Wi-Fi connectivity was a greater priority than proximity to restaurants and pubs (11%), quality of nearby schools (22%), an en-suite (26%), and parks or open spaces (25%).

To utilise unused spaces, potential options focussed around technological upgrades including relaxation dens (13%), home cinemas for men (20%) and gyms for women (15%). Of the survey's younger participants, a quarter of 18 to 24-year-olds preferred a big screen gaming area (25%).