What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
Did you know that buildings are responsible for almost 40% of the UK’s energy consumption and carbon emissions?
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) promote the improvement of the energy performance of buildings, and are intended to identify ways in which the energy consumption of buildings and associated costs can be reduced.
An EPC is intended to inform potential buyers or tenants about the energy performance of a building, so they can consider energy efficiency as part of their investment or business decision to buy or occupy that building.
The certificate will provide an energy rating of the building from A to G, where A is very efficient and G is the least efficient.
The better the rating, the more energy efficient the building is, and the lower the fuel bills are likely to be.
Obtaining an EPC
As soon as a building is in the process of being offered for sale or rent, it is the responsibility of the seller or landlord to make available free of charge an EPC to any prospective buyer or tenant.
EPCs must be carried out by an accredited domestic energy assessor which you can source in your area at the government’s official EPC register. However, if you are using an estate agent to sell your home or letting agent to rent it, it should be part of their job to ensure there is a valid EPC on the property.
Sellers and landlords who do not have an EPC can be fined up to £5,000.
Can you let a property with an EPC rating of F?
No – if you are renting your property and the EPC returns a rating of F or below G, the law says you must carry out the recommended works.
Will I always need an EPC?
There are a handful of scenarios under which you would not require an EPC. For example, if your property is listed, protected, or in conservation area, some energy-efficient improvements could unacceptably alter the appearance of the property.
If you’re in doubt, check with the local authority’s conservation officer.
A rented room within a house will not require an EPC either, although a self-contained flat within a larger house that has its own front door and facilities, will.
How much does an EPC cost?
There is no uniform fee for an EPC – it will depend on factors such as the size and type of property – but prices tend to start at around £60.
How often do you need an EPC certificate?
EPCs are valid for 10 years and can be reused as required within that period. A new EPC is not required each time there is a change of tenancy, or the property is sold, provided it is no more than 10 years old.
Useful links
Energy Performance Certificates – lots of useful information can be obtained on the Government Website.
Find an energy certificate – GOV.UK – you can also use this link to find and download your EPC if available.
Further reading
Purchases – Oakwood Property Solicitors
WHAT TO DO NEXT
To make a start on the next step in your property journey, get in touch today to book a consultation with a member of our team. Call us on 0113 218 5727 to find out how we can help you.
