What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An EPC is an important document that outlines a property’s energy usage and is made up of different components –
- An energy rating and score (A-G)
- A breakdown of the property’s energy performance
- An indication of energy usage costs
- Recommendations of changes that could be made to improve the current rating
The energy efficiency rating will be determined by how energy efficient the property is, i.e how easy is it to keep the property warm. An A rating would be the highest and a G rating would be the lowest.
An EPC will give recommendations on how to reduce energy usage and increase efficiency if needed. This could be anything from changing light bulbs to insulation the walls and roof space.
You can view EPC’s for any property that has one on the national EPC register.
Do I need an EPC?
Since 2008 it has been a legal requirement to have an EPC if you’re renting or selling a property and you must have a valid EPC in place before the property is put on the market.
For rental properties in London, Landlords are required to achieve a minimum of an E rating and could face a penalty of up to £4,000 for failure to comply with this requirement.
Some properties such as the ones listed below, may be able to apply for an EPC exemption using the PRS exemptions register –
- Listed buildings
- Vacant buildings
- Small detached buildings
- A property that cannot be modified to improve the energy rating
- A rented room within a house
- Places of worship
If you need help arranging an EPC for your property, please let us know
