Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
Designed to assess and communicate how energy efficient a property is, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are now a legal requirement when selling property. This requirement replaces the previous obligation to have a Home Information Pack in place.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
The EPC will tell you how energy efficient your property is, rated on a scale of A - G. The most energy efficient home will have an A rating. The EPC will also advise as to the impact the home has on the environment. Better rated homes will have lower carbon dioxide emissions.
According to the UK Government, the average property will be in bands D - E. Recommendations will also be included in the EPC about how to make the home more energy efficient.
Property EPCs are produced by domestic energy assessors using standard procedures and assumptions about a household's energy usage levels. This enables one property's efficiency to be easily compared with another of the same type. A house selling certificate of this kind also provides recommendations on measures that could be taken to improve an energy rating.
What an EPC includes
An EPC is split into two sections, providing a rating for each; energy efficiency and environmental impact.
- Energy Efficiency Rating indicates how much it costs to run a property
- Environmental Impact Rating indicates how much carbon dioxide is released by the property
An EPC also includes:
- Energy usage report - supplying estimated costs for lighting, heating and hot water
- Summary of the property's parts which impact on the overall energy performance
- Recommendations report - indicating ways and methods to improve a property's energy performance. This summarises potential financial savings that could be made from adopting these measures.
Who needs an EPC?
The following are required by law to have an Energy Performance Certificate:
- Vendors need an EPC when selling property
- Landlords must have a valid EPC in place at all times when letting a property
It is also good practice to obtain an EPC even if you are not in the process of selling. This information can prove extremely valuable, enabling you to cut down the costs of running your property and save you money.
Why get your EPC from Buckell & Ballard?
We are best placed to obtain your EPC quickly and efficiently to a professional standard allowing your home to be marketed as soon as possible. Our services are designed to assist your sale.
For more information please contact your local office.