86. Energy efficiency and EPCs
Energy efficiency is a significant aspect of property ownership, contributing to reduced energy consumption and environmental impact. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a standardised document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a property. It is typically required whenever a property is built, sold, or rented out in the United Kingdom. EPCs are intended to help homeowners, tenants, and buyers understand the energy performance of a property and make informed decisions about energy usage and potential improvements.
Here is what an EPC typically includes:
| Energy efficiency rating | This is a rating from A to G, with A being the most energy-efficient and G being the least. The rating is based on the property's energy performance and is determined by factors such as insulation, heating systems, and lighting efficiency. |
| Environmental impact rating | Similar to the energy efficiency rating, this is also on a scale from A to G and indicates the environmental impact of the property's energy usage in terms of carbon dioxide emissions. |
| Estimated energy costs | The EPC may provide an estimate of the property's annual energy costs based on its energy efficiency rating. This helps homeowners and tenants understand the potential ongoing expenses associated with heating, lighting, and other energy uses. |
| Recommendations for improvements | The EPC typically includes recommendations for improving the property's energy efficiency. These may range from simple measures such as installing energy-efficient light bulbs to more significant upgrades like upgrading insulation or replacing heating systems. |
| Details of the assessor | The EPC includes information about the accredited assessor who conducted the assessment, including their name, accreditation number, and contact details. |
| Property details | Basic information about the property, such as its address, type, size, and construction date, is also included in the EPC. |
An EPC serves as a valuable tool for homeowners, tenants, and buyers to understand the energy performance of a property and identify opportunities for energy-saving improvements. It helps promote energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and lower energy bills for occupants. Additionally, EPCs are required by law in the UK to be made available to prospective buyers or tenants, providing transparency and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their housing choices.
How to obtain an EPC
To obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for a property, you typically need to engage a qualified and accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) or Non-Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA) who is registered with an approved certification scheme. Here is how the process generally works:
| Find an accredited assessor | Search for a qualified DEA or NDEA in your area who is registered with an official certification scheme approved by the government. You can usually find accredited assessors through online directories or by contacting certification bodies directly. |
| Arrange an assessment | Once you have identified a suitable assessor, contact them to arrange an assessment of your property. Be prepared to provide details such as the property's address, size, and any relevant information about its construction and features. |
| Assessment visit | The assessor will visit the property to conduct an assessment of its energy performance. During the assessment, the assessor will gather information about the property's insulation, heating systems, lighting, and other factors that affect its energy efficiency. They may also take measurements and photographs as part of the assessment process. |
| Issue of EPC | After completing the assessment, the assessor will generate an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for the property. The EPC will include details about the property's energy efficiency rating, environmental impact, estimated energy costs, and recommendations for improvements. |
| Receipt of EPC | Once the EPC is generated, it will be lodged on the official EPC Register, and you will receive a copy of the certificate. The EPC is valid for ten years and can be used for multiple purposes, including selling, renting, or making energy-efficient improvements to the property. |
It is important to note that there is usually a fee associated with obtaining an EPC, which will vary depending on the size and type of property being assessed and the individual assessor's pricing structure. Additionally, EPCs are required by law to be provided to prospective buyers or tenants when a property is sold or rented out, so it is essential to ensure that you have a valid certificate in place if you are planning to market your property for sale or let.