How to get an Energy Performance Certificate EPC?

 Find out if and how to get an EPC for your property. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) show prospective home buyers or renters how energy efficient the building is. The EPC contains information on potential energy costs and CO2 emissions. A device-like color scheme shows how energy efficient the building is or can be.

Each Energy Performance Certificate is valid for 10 years and can be used multiple times during that time. An EPC can only be prepared by an accredited energy inspector who will visit the property to do an assessment.

●       Compare energy efficiency:

EPCs are created using standard engineering knowledge. This allows potential buyers and renters to easily view and compare the energy efficiency of all qualifying properties. It also shows how much it can cost to heat and light a building before a contract is signed.

●       Increase energy efficiency:

The Energy Performance Certificate also shows how energy efficient a property can be if some improvements are made. This includes replacing lighting with energy efficient lamps or improving insulation.

Each EPC is accompanied by a report detailing cost-effective actions an owner or business can take to improve the energy efficiency and energy rating of their property.

More about Energy Performance Certificate

For EPC advice, or if you are a buyer or new tenant and have not received an EPC, contact your local building authority.

 

For more information on the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations or to download the Energy Performance Certificate Guide, visit the Department of the Treasury website. The site has a new search feature that allows you to search for an EPC by zip code.

Less environmental impact with Energy Performance Certificate

Our homes are already responsible for 27% of the UK's carbon emissions that contribute to global climate change. Energy efficiency certification is designed to help homeowners reduce the environmental impact of their homes. The Energy Savings Trust estimates that an average of £300 a year could be saved on heating bills, based on recommendations on its energy efficiency page.

How can you improve your energy efficiency rating?

An Energy Performance Certificate lists ways to improve your score and provides indicative costs. These improvements will help you, your buyer or your tenants save on electricity costs and reduce the environmental impact of the property.

●       General recommendations include:

Insulation for your floor, ceiling, attic or walls. Better insulation reduces heating requirements and lowers your energy, bill.

●       Double Glazing:

Double glazed windows retain significantly more heat and reduce heating requirements.

●       Solar panels:

Produce cheaper and greener energy. Check out the solar panel tips for more information.

●       Energy-efficient lighting:

A small change with no structural changes, using energy-efficient light bulbs is a cheap and easy way to reduce energy bills.