EPCs
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a legal requirement under the Housing Act 2004 and The Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations (England and Wales) 2007. They were introduced as a result of European Union Directive 2029/91/EC, which relates to the energy performance of buildings.
EPCs became mandatory in England and Wales in 2007, as part of the Housing Act 2004 legislation requiring the compilation of Home Information Packs (HIPs). Although the obligation for HIPs was removed in May 2010, the requirement for EPCs continued. For new tenancies on rented properties, the law now requires an EPC be valid for 10 years.
How do I get an EPC?
At Eastbourne Lettings, Chris Mooney is a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor, and is on hand to carry out a professional survey to produce the required EPC. Chris will visit the property and examine key items such as: loft insulation, domestic boiler, hot water tank, radiators and double glazing. Using this information, a calculation of energy efficiency will be made. This will give a single number for the rating of energy efficiency, and a recommended value of the potential for improvement. To put the rating into a financial context, a table of estimated energy bills per annum (and the potential for improvement) will also be provided to the landlord. As a guide, the cost of the survey is around £60 for a four bedroom house.
What will the EPC tell me?
Energy Performance Certificates present the energy efficiency of dwellings on a scale of A to G. The most efficient homes, (which should have the lowest fuel bills) are in band A. The certificate uses the same scale to define the impact a home has on the environment. Better rated homes should have less impact through carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The average property in the UK is in band D or E for both ratings. The certificate also includes recommendations on ways to improve the home’s energy efficiency to save money. Because the EPC is designed to be produced at a change of occupancy, it must be relevant to any occupier.
To find out more about EPCs, visit the Department for Communities and Local Government website at www.communities.gov.uk
