Energy Performance Certificates
Since October 1st 2008 it has been mandatory for landlords in England and Wales to make available a full Energy Performance Certificate to all prospective tenants, it is illegal to advertise a property to rent unless it has a valid EPC which must include cost effective recommendations to improve the energy performance of the property. The fine for non-compliance is £200.
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has existed as a supplement to the Home Information Pack since their introduction in 2007. The EPC indicates the Energy Efficiency and CO₂ rating for a home on a scale of A-G (A being most efficient). The EPC is issued by a qualified energy assessor following a survey of the home.
Example of energy efficiency rating graph for homes
The EPC's will have to be provided free either when (or before) any written information about the property is provided to prospective tenants or a viewing is conducted. They will not have to be provided if the landlord believes the prospective tenant is unlikely to have sufficient funds to rent the property or is not genuinely interested in renting, or the landlord is unlikely to be prepared to rent the property to the prospective tenant.
A new certificate will not be required on each let since, in the case of rental property; EPCs will be valid for 10 years.
We offer a very competitive rate of £70.00, If you would like us to arrange an EPC for you please contact us on 01302 300027.
Energy Performance Certificate FAQ
What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate, or EPC, is the product of an energy survey that is carried out by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA). The certificate provides two separate ratings to indicate the overall efficiency of the property and the associated CO2 impact. The certificate also includes instructions on how to improve the overall energy efficiency of the property.
How long does the EPC survey take?
Typically a home energy survey will take between 45 minutes to 3 hours depending on the size and structure of the property.
What is the assessment procedure?
Initially a complete set of dimensions will be taken for the property to determine the floor plan area. Access to all rooms is required to assess the radiators, glazing and lighting. The energy assessor will also make a visual inspection of the loft space to establish the type of roof insulation used. Any secondary heating and water systems will also be identified and supporting pictures will be taken of each room. The photographs taken will not be published in the final certificate.
Are our Energy Assessors Accredited?
Yes. We only commission a fully accredited Domestic Energy Assessors. On request we can provide the DEA's accreditation number for you to independently verify this.
Do I need to lift floor boards or roof panels?
No. The Energy Assessor will make all reasonable efforts to visually inspect each of the required areas of assessment. Where this is not physically possible or in circumstances where this could be deemed to present risk to the assessor a predicted or assumed value will be used.
How long is the EPC valid for?
On rental properties the EPC will be valid for 10 years.