Residential energy performance certificates
Charges & Instructions
We charge £60 + VAT for all domestic Energy Performance Certificates (unless the property is exceptionally large or unusual) although discounts are available for multiple/portfolio instructions.
Inspections are carried out within 48 hours of receiving instructions and payment (subject to access being available) and the certificate issued within 24 hours of the inspection. Floor plans at greatly reduced prices can also be provided as an add on service to the Certificates.
For further information or to instruct a certificate to be carried out please contact us on 02083009602.
General info. on Residential Energy Performance Certificates
What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) provides a rating for the energy performance of a building. The ratings are standard so the energy efficiency of one building can easily be compared with another building of a similar type. EPCs are similar to the certificates now provided with domestic appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines. They give building owners, occupiers and purchasers information on the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of their building.
The EPC rates the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of a property on a scale of A to G, where A is the best. A recommendation report is attached to the certificate, providing information about ways to improve the energy efficiency of the property. The certificate also shows the rating that could be achieved if all the recommendations were implemented.
When do I need to have an Energy Performance Certificate?
EPCs are only needed for buildings when they are constructed, sold or rented.
It is the responsibility of the person selling or renting a building to have a valid EPC to show to prospective buyers and tenants. The EPC must be given to the eventual buyer or tenant.
There is no requirement to get an EPC for buildings that are just being occupied normally other than when they are being sold or let.
If a property is to be sold the EPC must form part of the Home Information Pack, commissioned before marketing can take place.
How do I get an Energy Performance Certificate?
EPCs can only be produced by an accredited Energy Assessor. EPCs can only be produced using Government approved software programmes that use standard energy rating methods.
What does an Energy Assessment involve?
An accredited Energy Assessor needs to visit a property to conduct an energy assessment. During the assessment they collect information on the property, which includes details of its dimensions, construction and heating/hot water provision.
This information is fed into the approved software programme which produces the EPC and recommendation report.
What sort of recommendations will be made and what do they mean?
The recommendations include a list of cost-effective improvements which will improve the energy efficiency of a property. For each improvement it shows the approximate cost, typical cost savings per year and the performance rating after improvement. Examples of cost-effective improvement recommendations for a home could include the use of low energy light bulbs, loft insulation and cavity wall insulation.
Do I have to act on the recommendations?
You are under no obligation to act on the recommendations. Acting on the recommendations is likely to improve the energy efficiency of your property, reduce your fuel bills, cut carbon emissions and could make the property more attractive to potential buyers or tenants in the future, however.