When do you need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for a commercial property?
An Energy Performance Certificate, also known as an EPC, is needed when a home is built, sold or let. They're a legal requirement for the sale and renting process. EPC are also advised if a residential property is altered in a way that changes it's occupancy or energy efficiency.
EPCs contain current and potential energy ratings for a building on a scale of A-G and suggested actions to improve the rating. This information, along with estimated energy bills helps buyers and tenants make more informed decisions.
If you're a landlord then you now have to meet minimum requirements for buildings being let, but there are also some exemptions.
How do I get an EPC to sell or rent a property?
An Energy Performance Certificate needs to be available to anyone interested in buying or renting a property. We can provide a quick turnaround and help you make sense of your EPC. EPCs for residential properties can be subject to some exemption for example where a property is listed and the improvements wouldn't be allowed, or the same but applying to planning refusal. Whether your EPC is straightforward or more complicated, our certified energy assessors can help you.
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EPCs for landlords?
The EPC is a legal requirement and all potential tenants will be able to review it. So there's no hiding!
Energy performance is an increasing factor in renting a property. Especially long-term rentals. As energy prices increase people are more and more interested in the energy performance of rental properties.
Landlords can carry out suggested improvement actions on the EPC to improve the energy performance of their properties. This will help them to be more competitive against similar properties with lower energy ratings.
What does an EPC assessment look at?
An Energy Performance Certificate is the result of an assessment by a qualifies assessor. The EPC assessor will look at things that impact the energy efficiency of a property. Areas looked at before issuing an EPC include:
Property age
Property type
Wall, loft or floor insulation
Construction materials
Windows
Hot water systems
Heating systems
Lighting
Got a question about Energy Compliance Certificates? Chat with one of our friendly energy experts.
Energy Performance (EPC) FAQs
Can I do my own energy performance certificate?
No is the short answer. Energy performance certificates need to be provided by an accredited assessor after an inspection of the property.
How long does it take to conduct the assessment before an EPC can be issued?
A home energy assessment can take as little as 30 minutes. Processing the information can then take up to 72 hours. But if you're working to a tight timeframe then let us know and we'll see how we can help you.
How long is an EPC valid for?
An energy performance certificate is valid for 10 years. But if you make improvements to the energy efficiency of a property, then it's advised to update the EPC before selling or letting the property.
Are the energy costs accurate?
The energy costs are an estimate and not tailored to the property, number of people using it or type of use. The estimates are based on similar properties at the time of issue. The costs cover lighting, heating and hot water but do not include appliances or other energy use.
What happens if my property fails an EPC inspection?
There is no such thing as a pass or fail when it comes to Energy Performance Certificates. A property is simply rated from A to G. If a property is rated as having poor energy efficiency then there is no failure, simply higher energy costs listed and suggested actions to improve energy efficiency and reduce overall carbon emissions.