An EPC is an official document issued by accredited energy assessors that determines the energy efficiency of homes. It costs typically between £45 and £100 depending on the size of your property. These certificates are legally required. Always ask for an original before purchasing an apartment / flat or a house.
Energy Performance Certificates are valid for 10 years
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are required by the UK government and are valid for 10 years. They evaluate the energy efficiency of a structure and provide it with a letter or colour rating, ranging from A (highest) to G (worst). These certificates also include information on carbon dioxide emissions and annual energy use that allows owners to make improvements and reduce their expenses.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), is only valid for properties that meet the minimum requirements. A maximum amount of money that can be used for improvements to boost the property’s rating is “E”. This can be as low as £3,500, but landlords who cannot pay for the improvements may apply for an exemption. EPCs are easily accessible by new owners or tenants.
They are required by law
An EPC is an official document that describes the energy performance for a property. This document is required under law for all properties, both new and existing. It is available to potential buyers and tenants. The document should be handed out when a buyer or tenant first looks at the property or receives any information about it. It is required by tenants and guarantors prior to signing a lease.
EPCs are not required for rooms that are not part of the building. They are not an individual dwelling, but are part of a building. If the building contains kitchen and bathroom that are shared every room would not require an EPC.
Benefits of an Updated EPC
An EPC is also a fantastic method of assessing the home’s energy efficient as well as to discover ways to increase it. It is then possible to implement these suggestions for energy efficiency to help make your home more affordable to manage. For example replacing all of your windows that are old with double-glazed windows will save you approximately £135 each year.
Who is responsible for obtaining the EPC?
If the property is placed on the market for rental or for sale, the owner is accountable to obtain an EPC. If the building was built new then the developer is responsible. They must obtain an EPC for the property within five days of the completion of the building.
When you won’t need one
In some instances, you won’t need an EPC. These include properties that are vacant for a period of 4 months or less or are temporary structures that last for two years or less. EPC exemptions are also available for listed buildings. The responsibility for obtaining an EPC lies with the owner of the property.
It is important to keep in mind that an EPC is only valid for 10 years from the time it was issued. If you have made any changes to your home in the previous 10 years the rating is no longer valid.