What is an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) ?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that contains information about a property and how efficiently it uses energy. It is produced using a standard layout and uses standardised measures, usage patterns and performance criteria to enable properties of all shapes and sizes, ages and configurations to be compared objectively in terms of their energy consumption and in terms of their impact on the environment.
Do I need an EPC?
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are mandatory and needed whenever a property is going to be built, sold or rented out, and must be obtained before a property is marketed.
The purpose of these certificates is so that a prospective buyer or tenant can see what actions, if any, can be undertaken to improve energy performance.
What do EPC’s Contain?
An EPC is broken down into a number of sections as per the following:
- The Energy Efficiency Rating and Environmental Impact (CO2) Rating
- Estimated energy use, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and fuel costs
- Recommendations
- Further Measures
- A summary of the property’s energy performance related features
- Supplementary information, actions and advice
How long does an EPC last for?
All Energy Performance Certificates are valid for 10 years.
Where do I get an EPC from?
Qualified Domestic Energy Assessors who are accredited by an accreditation body licensed by the Government can survey a property and create an EPC for you. The price should range from between £40.00 and £50.00.
EPC Exemptions
There are instances where EPCs are not mandatory, the following types of properties are examples:
- Places of worship
- Temporary buildings that will be used for less than 2 years
- Stand-alone buildings with a total useful floor space of less than 50 square metres
- Industrial sites, workshops and non-residential agricultural buildings that don’t use a lot of energy
- Some buildings that are due to be demolished
- Holiday accommodation that is let for less than 4 months a year or is let under a Licence to Occupy
- Listed buildings
- Residential buildings intended to be used less than 4 months a year
We are Residential & Commercial Conveyancing Specialists!
Please call us on 0207 183 0084 or email us on property@olaleslie.com for a fixed fee conveyancing quotation and to ask us about any reservations or queries that you may have; we are always happy to assist.
Ayesha Leslie, Partner
Ola Leslie Solicitors
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The contents of this page are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this page.
