Before a property can be placed on the market for lease or sale, the property owner is legally required to commission, register and provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
This certification is a document that provides details about the energy efficiency of the property via a lettered grade of which A is the most energy efficient and G is the least. It also provides an estimation for the current running costs of the property, along with a projection for running costs and energy efficiency of the property if particular changes are made to premises.
Although this legislation was introduced to reduce nationwide energy expenditure to meet EU agreements, an EPC can be beneficial to property owners and prospective buyers by providing them with the best methods to reduce their annual expenditure on energy.
In order to obtain an EPC, an accredited EPC assessor must be commissioned to conduct a survey of the property. During this survey, the assessor will inspect various aspects of the property including the insulation of the loft and walls, the performance of water tanks, boilers and radiators, glazing on windows, light fixtures and fixed appliances within the home.
Using this information, the assessor with them calculate the energy efficiency. This is a quick process, and usually an efficiency grading can be provided the same day. The best efficiency grading that can be achieved is an A, while the worst is a G.
In the full EPC report, the assessor will also provide recommendations for specific changes to the property than can be undertaken and how these changes will improve the efficiency grade.
Not only is this useful information to a property owner, but making this information public and improving on a bad efficiency grading is now a legal requirement. If a property owner obtains a grading of less than an E for their property, they are liable to fines of up to £4000 if they fail to improve the grading.
In addition, if an EPC is not registered and provided while the property is on the market, the property owner is also liable to hefty fines.
If you’re looking for an EPC please get in touch with our team today for further info and a fixed price quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a domestic EPC certificate and why is it needed?
A domestic EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) shows how energy efficient a home is, using a rating from A to G. It is needed because it provides buyers, tenants, and landlords with clear information about energy use, running costs, and environmental impact. In the UK and Scotland, it is also a legal requirement when selling or renting a property.
When is a domestic EPC required?
A domestic EPC is required when a property is built, sold, or rented out. It must be available before a property is marketed so that prospective buyers or tenants can review the energy efficiency rating as part of their decision-making process.
Who needs to arrange an EPC certificate?
The property owner is responsible for arranging an EPC certificate. This applies to homeowners selling their property as well as landlords letting residential accommodation. The EPC must be produced by an accredited energy assessor to be valid.
How long is a domestic EPC valid for?
A domestic EPC is typically valid for 10 years. If major energy efficiency improvements are carried out during that time, property owners may choose to obtain a new EPC to reflect the updated rating and improve marketability.
What happens if you don’t have an EPC when required?
If a valid EPC is not in place when required, a property cannot legally be marketed for sale or rent. This can delay transactions and may also lead to enforcement action or penalties, depending on the circumstances.