What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is now required for all homes whenever built, rented or sold.  If you are buying or selling a home it is now law to have a certificate. They are also required on construction of new homes and are needed for rented homes the first time the property is let.

The certificate records the energy efficiency of a property and provides ratings similar to the labels now provided with domestic appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines.  It gives the building a standard energy and carbon emission efficiency grade from ‘A’ to ‘G’, where ‘A’ is the most efficient. The average efficiency grade to date is 'D'.

Example of energy efficiency rating graph for homes

EPCs must be produced by an ‘accredited’ Domestic Energy Assessor who carries out a survey to the property. EPCs are used to collect standard information on the property; for example, its construction and forms of hot water and heating systems and make assumptions about energy usage so that the energy efficiency of one building can easily be compared with another building of the same type. This allows prospective buyers, tenants, owners, occupiers and purchasers to see information on the energy efficiency and carbon emissions from their building so they can consider energy efficiency and fuel costs as part of their investment.

An EPC is always accompanied by a recommendation report that lists cost effective and other measures (such as low and zero carbon generating systems) to improve the energy rating. A rating is also given showing what could be achieved if all the recommendations were implemented. The report lists:

• suggested improvements (such as fitting loft insulation)
• the approximate cost
• possible cost savings per year if the improvements are made
• how this would change the energy and carbon emission rating of the property

The information provided is designed to help the household to cut their fuel bills, improve energy performance in the home and cut carbon emissions. In addition it can help you choose a more energy efficient home to rent or buy.

The certificate is important because nearly 50 per cent of the UK's energy consumption and carbon emissions arise from the way our buildings are lit, heated and used. Even comparatively minor changes in energy performance and the way we use each building will have a significant effect in reducing energy consumption.

An Energy Performance Certificate must now be available (free of charge):

• when the property is viewed;
• when written information is provided on request by a potential homebuyer;
• before exchange of contracts

Private landlords are required to make EPCs available, free of charge, to prospective tenants the first time a self-contained property is let and the EPC is valid for a minimum of 5 years.

For more information about Energy Performance Certificates, the following website may be of interest:

www.campaigns.direct.gov.uk/epc/ (this is an external hyperlink)