An EPC may recommend cleaner and greener sources of energy, or other energy efficiency measures to improve your property’s energy efficiency. These are likely to help reduce your carbon footprint long term whilst making a sensible investment in your home.
Energy Performance Certificates
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a rating given to a property which gives the homeowner and potential buyers an indication of its energy efficiency.
How do they work?
The ratings are alphabetical, starting with an ‘A’ for the most energy efficient homes, dropping to the bottom rating of ‘G’ for the worse performing homes.
The EPC will also give the homeowner guidelines (including estimates of cost) on how to improve the energy efficiency of their home.
An EPC is not a structural or building survey, condition report or property valuation. It simply indicates the property’s current and potential energy efficiency.
When is an Energy Performance Certificate needed?
An EPC is needed whenever a house is built, sold or rented. You’ll need this for potential buyers and tenants before you start marketing your property for sale or rent.
If you’re a landlord of domestic private rented property, your property needs to be compliant with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) Regulations. There is a legal requirement to have an EPC and ensure the property achieves at least an E rating unless there is an exemption.
How long will an Energy Performance Certificate last?
EPCs are valid for 10 years.
How are EPCs assessed?
An accredited Energy Assessor will visit your property and gather the information required for assessing energy efficiency, either by visual checks or documentary evidence. They will then generate an Energy Performance Certificate using government-approved software.
The assessment is based on the construction and type of property and relevant fittings such as heating systems, insulation, or double glazing.
How much does an Energy Performance Certificate cost?
If you get in touch with us we can discuss the costs of an EPC and talk you though the information you will need for the assessment.
Can I get a grant to cover the costs of an EPC?
Not at the moment, but getting the EPC done as early as possible will allow you to begin marketing your property for sale or rent more quickly.
Will an EPC save me money on my utility bills?
The EPC will indicate your property’s potential energy efficiency and recommend how this can be achieved, including giving a guide to costs for suggested improvements.
Increasing your property’s energy efficiency can often lead to lower energy bills.
