Energy Performance Certificates commonly referred to as EPC’s came into force in 2008. Any newly built home, home for sale or rent must have an EPC, so buyers or tenants are aware of the properties energy rating.
EPC’s are the responsibility of the seller/landlord, so if you’re buying or renting a home you should never be charged for one, in fact, it’s illegal to charge a buyer or renter for an EPC and could lead to a fine.
EPC’s are being used to save money some homeowners pay for EPC’s even though they have no intention of selling or renting out their home; they are just interested in their homes energy performance and what areas they can improve on.
An Energy Performance Certificate looks very similar to the energy ratings you find on new appliances such as dishwashers and fridges with ratings from A-G, A is very energy efficient with low running costs while G is not energy efficient with high running costs.
Properties are given a current and potential score out of 100, the higher the number, the more energy efficient your property, the ratings go as follows
- A, 92-100
- B, 81-91
- C, 69-80
- D, 55-68
- E, 39-54
- F, 21-38
- G, 1-20
These scores determine your current and potential Energy Efficiency Rating and Environmental Impact Rating
The Energy Efficiency Rating takes into account your fuel costs and homes energy efficiency. A higher rating indicates lower fuel bills.
The Environmental Impact Rating indicates the effect of your home on the environment by estimating the amount of CO2 emissions your homes producing. The higher the rating, the less impact your home has on the environment.
Whoever carries out your ECP will give you your current estimated running costs for electricity, hot water and heating, running costs and savings you could achieve if improvements are made and a full list of recommendations that you can undertake to improve your properties energy ratings.
Recommendations include a full description, for example, increase loft insulation, undertake draught proofing, install double glazing, estimated costs and typical savings over three years.
The cost of Energy Performance Certificates depends on the area you live in and the size of your property. In Essex ECP’s start at around £40 make sure to shop around so you can get the best price, please bear in mind that EPC’s must be carried out by an accredited assessor. Always check the credentials of the issuer.
Landlords must obtain EPC’s before renting out their properties. Any properties that score 1-38 (F and G) must raise the Energy Efficiency Rating to 39 (E) or above. Landlords that fail to meet the required standard could be fined up to £4000.