EPCs

Energy Performance Certificates



Why is this important?

From October 1 2008 all properties sold or let must have an EPC produced by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor. EPCs are part of the Government’s energy saving initiatives in line with the European Directive for the Energy Performance of Buildings.

An EPC will show the energy efficiency of a property and list recommendations as to how the grading on properties can be improved. The Domestic Energy Assessor will examine age, size, construction, the type of heating of a property and assess whether the property has such features as double glazing, loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, etc. The Assessor will also highlight areas where improvements can be made to the property to improve the ratings.

What are the advantages?

The advantage to the prospective tenant or purchaser is that they will be able to ascertain how energy efficient the property they are considering is, and compare it with others. They may still decide to go ahead with the lease or purchase of a property with a lower energy grading but at least they will be aware that some improvements may be necessary.

Landlords or vendors are under no obligation to carry out any improvements suggested but this may affect the chances of letting or selling a property. There will be an advantage for those with properties to rent or sell that gain a higher grading.

Domestic energy accounts for 27% (and growing) of the UK’s carbon dioxide emissions. There will therefore be advantages from not only reducing these emissions, which contribute towards climate change, but from the added comfort in our homes and savings we all make on our energy bills.

What should I do now?

Contact our offices and we will arrange for Stuart our fully qualified and accredited Domestic Energy Assessor to visit your property, carry out a survey and issue you with an EPC which will grade the energy efficiency and environmental impact of the property. Where necessary the EPC will include recommendations as to how improvements can be made. These improvements are often inexpensive and in some cases grants are available.

Let us take the hassle.