Article on Energy Performance Certificates submitted by Chris Jack of South West Property Reports

When? From the 1^st October 2008 all buildings – both domestic dwellings and commercial property – require a current Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) if they are being marketed for let, sale or new-built.

For rented domestic dwellings an EPC is required for properties that are being marketed for let on and after 1^st October 2008 and remains valid for 10 years.  EPCs have been required on the sale of dwellings since Home Information Packs were introduced in August 2007.

Why? This initiative is part of the EU wide commitment to improve the energy efficiency of buildings and significantly reduce carbon emissions over the next few years.  Buildings with the highest ratings will use less energy per year and be significantly cheaper to run in terms of heating, hot water and lighting than those with lower ratings.

The EPC rates the performance of domestic property in terms of its energy efficiency and impact on the environment.  Genuine prospective tenants and purchasers should be provided with an EPC for the property.

How? To provide the EPC, a visual inspection is carried out on site by a qualified Energy Assessor. This will normally take about ¾  to 1½ hours (depending on the size/complexity of the property) and focuses on:

• Insulation Walls, windows, roof and floors
• Property Type Construction, size and age
• Heating Systems Type, age and controls
• Hot Water System Type, age and insulation
• Fixed Lighting Are energy efficient bulbs used?
• Windows How many and what types?
• Fuels What fuels are used? Gas, electricity, oil, coal, wood?

EPC ratings diagram

What do they mean? The ratings are given as numbers (1 to 100), ranked A to G and then displayed as coloured bar charts in the same way that is used for the efficiency of fridges and washing machines in shops.  Prospective purchasers or tenants will be able to see at a glance how energy efficient and environmentally friendly properties are – if fuel prices continue to rise then better energy efficiency will mean significantly lower bills

In addition, the EPC indicates what actions could be taken to improve the energy efficiency rating and gives clear guidance on the annual cost savings that would result. Government grants and tax savings may be available to owners, landlords or tenants to carry out some of these recommendations, such as improving insulation in properties.

For more information on EPC please contact Chris Jack on 01823 322199