As a landlord, you are legally required to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for your property.
An EPC estimates how much it costs to heat and power a building. The report also provides recommendations for improvement and the resulting cost savings you can expect.
EPCs are categorised by property type and purpose. A rating of A to G is given, with A being the most energy efficient and G the least. The report also shows the property’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
Single-family homes rented or sold are required to obtain a domestic EPC, regardless of the property’s size. Exceptions to this rule include some listed structures, temporary structures that will not be used for more than two years, and holiday rentals let out for less than four months in a year.
These are required for selling, letting, or constructing commercial buildings. It outlines the energy efficiency of the property to prospective buyers or tenants. However, you do not need an EPC if you could prove the building falls under any of the following:
A Standard Assessment Procedure or SAP measures a property\’s energy efficiency and CO2 emissions. It is applicable for newly constructed, converted and extended residential properties.
Unlike domestic and commercial EPCs, SAPs do not require an on-site visit. You simply need to provide documents like your architect\’s blueprints and construction specification details.
For landlords and owners, EPCs make a property more attractive to potential tenants and buyers. Prospects are now looking for energy-efficient homes to save on their utility bills. You can show that your property meets these standards with an EPC.
Meanwhile, tenants can use an EPC to see how much it costs to heat and power a rental unit. The report also provides recommendations on how they can save energy and money.
Lastly, an EPC is required by law when selling or letting a property.
If you do not have one, you could face a fine of up to £5,000.
Domestic assessments take a minimum of 30 minutes, while commercial inspections can last up to 45 minutes.
However, the time required for an evaluation also depends on the size and complexity of the property.
EPC assessments are conducted by a qualified energy assessor. They will visit the property to collect data on its construction, size, and use. Photo evidence may also be gathered during the inspection.
The assessor will take note of the following:
Windows | Lighting | fixtures | Boiler | Insulation | Water tanks | Energy-saving measures i.e., solar panels
After the inspection, the assessor prepares a report outlining the property’s energy rating and CO2 emissions. The document will also include recommendations on how to improve the property\’s energy efficiency.
A copy of the EPC will be lodged in a national database where interested parties can access it. The results are available to the public. In some cases, the government can also use them for research or statistical purposes.
Energy Performance Certificates are valid for ten years. However, we recommend you get a new assessment if there are significant changes to the property, such as renovations or the installation of energy-saving features.
This is to ensure that the EPC accurately reflects the current energy efficiency of the property and you’re up to code with current legislation.
Many customers get a Floorplan alongside their EPC. Our assessors can do both in one visit. Save time and money by combining services. Click below for more information.
Since 2010, we have been providing you with EPCs, EICRs, CP12s and lots more. We’ll take the stress out of getting certified, keep you compliant and your tenants safe.
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