energy performance certificates
About EPCs
Properties that are marketed in England and Wales are required to have an EPC
What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
EPCs look similar to the energy labels found on domestic appliances such as fridges and washing machines. The energy efficiency and environmental impact of your property will be rates on a scale from A-G (where A is the most efficient and G the least efficient) as shown below. Current running costs for heating, hot water and lighting will also be shown on the certificate, together with a list of recommended energy saving improvements.
The energy efficiency rating is a measure of the overall efficiency of a home. The higher the rating, the more energy efficient the home is and the lower the fuel bills will be.
The environmental impact rating is a measure of a home’s impact on the environment in terms of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The higher the rating, the less impact it has on the environment.
How do I get an Energy Performance Certificate?
We will visit your property to assess the age, construction and location of the property as well as its current fittings such as heating systems, insulation, double glazing etc.
We offer stand alone EPCs for just £100+VAT.
When do I need to get one?
You can not commence marketing your property until you have actually ordered an Energy Performance Certificate. At minimum, this means that we must be instructed to prepare an EPC for your home before it is marketed. The law says that it must be paid for upfront, or a clear commitment made to pay for one in person (or estate agent) responsible for marketing (i.e., get it in writing)
There should also be a "reasonable" expectation that the EPC will be made available within 28 days of the property first appearing on the market. This means when it is "advertised or otherwise communicated (in whatever form and by whatever means) to the public or a section of the public".
What can I do to make my energy rating as high as possible?
- Insulating your property is the most cost effective measure you can take. In most cases, cavity wall insulation is straight forward, inexpensive and hassle-free, Installing new loft insulation in most properties is an easy DIY job and should be done to a depth of 270mm.
- If your boiler is over 15 years old, it’s probably time to replace it and you’ll get a better rating if you combine it with modern heating controls. If you need to save space, buy a combi boiler, which does not store hot water in a tank but heats water directly from the cold water mains as it is used.
- Fit a hot water tank jacket.
- While double glazing can be fairly expensive, it will reduce noise and lower heating bills.
- When purchasing new appliances look out for the Energy Saving Recommended Logo, and choose the most energy efficient in their category.
- For free, impartial advice on energy efficiency improvements call 0800 512 012 or visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
Why has Government introduced EPCs?
Domestic energy use accounts for 27% of the UK’s carbon dioxide emissions. The Government is introducing a number of energy saving initiatives, including EPCs, aimed at marking all buildings more energy efficient. These measures are being applied across all European Union countries as per the European Directive for the energy Performance of Buildings.
Where can I find out how energy efficient my properties are now?
The Energy Saving Trust will provide you with a personalised Home Energy Check report on each of your properties for free. Simply complete the questionnaire* today and you should have your report very soon. Alternatively, visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk for more information.
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