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Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Explained Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) (Domestic dwellings) What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)? Energy Performance Certificates (EPC’s) have been introduced to help improve the energy efficiency of buildings. If you are buying or selling a home you now need an Energy Performance Certificate In the case of rented properties (as opposed to sale properties) the requirement for an EPC will depend upon a number of factors. It is advisable to visit the appropriate Government web sites regarding an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for rental properties. The certificate provides 'A' to 'G' ratings for the building, with 'A' being the most energy efficient and 'G' being the least efficient. Average rating for properties assessed to date indicates the a “D “ rating may be normal. Note that the “Energy Efficiency Rating” shows current and potential ratings. An explanation of this is as follows: The current rating is the rating this is calculated at the time of the property survey. This survey being carried out by a suitably qualified accredited person. The potential rating is the estimated rating that will apply after specific recommendations (included as part of the EPC) are implemented. The “Environmental Impact (CO2) Rating” (right hand graph) relates to the current and potential CO2 emissions. So what is involved in the provision of an Energy Performance Certificate? As previously stated the individual property will need to be surveyed by a suitably qualified person. This will be a person known as a Domestic Energy Assessor (or DEA) who has been accredited by a government approved system. The DEA will survey the property (normally including drawing outline plans) and will note the following: Type of property EG House, Flat, Bungalow etc and the correct post code Whether it is: detached, semi- detached, terraced etc Floor dimensions Wall construction Roof construction Floor construction Type of windows Type of heating and controls Type of electricity meter (single dual) There are other factors that may be taken into account during the survey. When the DEA has accumulated the above information then this will be inputted to the appropriate approved software (as dictated by regulations) This software will then calculated the property’s energy rating and recommendations (where appropriate) for changes to the property to improve the energy rating. Such recommendations are given an estimated cost of implement and a cost improvement estimation that will be reflected in the property’s energy costs. It should be noted that the certificate may contain several improvement recommendations. For example: There may be recommendations to upgrade the boiler and its controls. There may be a recommendation to insulate the walls and to add more insulation to the loft. More expensive measures may be the addition of Solar Energy. It should be noted that they are recommendations and not obligations. How do I obtain an Energy Performance certificate (EPC) and what is its cost? There are many suppliers of Energy Performance Certificates. Where only an Energy Performance Certificate is required (as would be the case with a rented property) then it would be normal to contact an EPC supplier to arrange this. Costs do vary for an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) but my prices are one of the best of the market. The supplier will arrange for the Energy Performance Certificte (EPC) to be delivered upon completion (often via email) however hard copies are normally also available.
Note that all information given here is in outline only and may change without notice (due to Government policy and other factors). It is strongly advised to visit the appropriate Government web site for more comprehensive and up to date information. |
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