What is an EPC?
Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD) requires the Government to rate the energy performance of buildings and they use the Energy Performance Certificate to do this. Buildings are rated from 1 - 100 and the numbers are used to divide the ratings from "A to G", with "A" being the most efficient. This scale shows not only the energy efficiency levels but also the CO2 emissions of a building.
E.P.C's are legally required for any building that is to be put on the market for sale or for rental purposes irrespective of whether you are selling/renting privately or using an Estate Agent. It is also a requirement for any newly built properties to have an EPC upon completion of the build. It is currently the responsibility of the building owner to ensure that an EPC is available to prospective purchasers and tenants.
Who can carry out an EPC?
E.P.C's can only be undertaken by an Accredited Energy Assessor who is a member of a Government approved Accreditation Scheme. Once you have contacted an Energy Assessor, they will arrange to visit the property to undertake an assessment to generate an EPC and will lodge this on to the national register: www.epcregister.com.
Domestic Energy Assessors completing E.P.C's on existing dwellings additionally have a Criminal Records Bureau check. (DBS)
How long are E.P.C's Valid?
An EPC is valid for 10 years.
What is involved in a survey?
Once instructed, a qualified DEA will book an appointment with you, at a convenient time, to visit your property.
They will need to obtain information on the following:-
- The measurements of the building.
- The age and construction of the building, including extensions.
- Record details of the space and water heating systems.
- Obtain information about the windows and doors.
- Access the loft space to measure insulation levels.
- Check lighting.
- Take photos of the above.