An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows the property’s energy efficiency on a scale of A-G.
First introduced in 2007, Energy Performance Certificates are a legal requirement for any building that is sold, let or constructed. Once you have obtained an EPC it is valid for the next 10 years.
EPCs also apply to commercial buildings, which is rated on a scale of A-G. EPC for commercial buildings are rated only on carbon dioxide emissions.
Band A represents the most energy efficient homes, these houses will have the lowest fuel bills because they are more energy efficient.
What Is on an EPC Report?
An EPC report will show you your property’s energy efficiency band from A-G. An EPC report also contains a potential scale for your property’s energy efficiency if improvements are made. The report will also show you the amount of CO2 emissions produced by the property in tons, and will advise on the amount this could be brought down.
Does My Energy Efficiency Rating Show How Eco-Friendly My Home Is?
Yes. Although eco-friendliness has a lot of contributing factors, energy consumption is a big one. The more energy efficient your home is, i.e the closer to A your property is on the scale, the less energy you will use. This will reduce your carbon footprint because generally our homes are powered by fossil fuels which release CO2. If being eco-friendly is a big concern, consider making your home as energy efficient as possible and switch your energy provider to a renewable provider.
What Is an Average Score?
In the UK the average property falls within bands D-E. Your EPC report will include recommendations on ways that you could improve your home’s energy efficiency. Making these changes will help you save money on your energy bills and help the environment.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards
In April 2018, minimum energy efficiency standards legislation was introduced, making it a legal requirement for all properties owned to have an EPC rating of at least E before they are let or sold.
This legislation applies to domestic and commercial properties. There are some exemptions to the minimum energy efficiency standards including properties that are listed buildings.
For property owners who failed to meet the minimum energy efficiency standards there are fines in place to ensure compliance. For a domestic dwelling you could receive a fine of up to £5,000 for not meeting the energy efficiency standards. For a non-domestic property, the fine could reach £150,000.
How Can I Get a Copy of My EPC?
As long as you have an address or a Report Reference Number (RRN) you can get a copy of your EPC.
For properties in England and Wales click here.
For properties in Scotland click here.
For properties in Northern Ireland click here.
What Does an EPC Involve?
If you require an EPC you must have an accredited energy assessor to carry out an energy assessment. An EPC cannot be administered by someone who is not accredited.
You can find a list of Energy Assessors here.
Once you have found an energy assessor they will need to have access to all the rooms in your house, as well as your loft. Assessors are also required to inspect heating systems and controls. They will take measurements and photographs of all the key data required for the survey. An EPC survey is non-invasive, a visual inspection is the only thing required.
How Long Does an EPC Survey Take?
This all depends on the size of your house and how complex it will be for an assessor to gather all the information they need. When the assessor arrives, you can ask them how long they think your property will take.
