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What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An EPC is a certificate that shows in detail the energy performance of a building. The certificate will give the properties an easy to understand rating of its energy efficiency using a scale of A-G (A being the most efficient and G being the least efficient) along with any recommendations to improve the properties efficiency and save money following an on site survey carried out by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA)
What does the on site survey involve?
The Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) will conduct a survey of the property which will involve looking at, and detailing the following:
- The construction type of the external walls
- Ascertaining the properties age (including any extensions)
- The types of windows and doors
- All room and water heating systems
- Loft space (to measure and record loft insulation levels)
- The properties fuel meters
- Any fixed lighting
What do I need to do as a landlord?
As a landlord you must ensure that an EPC is provided for your properties. We at first4rentals can help you with this whether we manage your property or not by instructing our in house fully accredited Energy Assessor to carry out this on your behalf. By instructing us we can ensure that your EPC survey is conducted in a professional and consistent manner at very competitive prices and you will be safe in the knowledge that you are working with a well established and highly respected company.
Do I really need an EPC? Is it a legal requirment?
"An EPC is required by law when a building is constructed sold or put up for rent"
Since 14th October 2008 the EPC Law/Regulation has been in full force. It places an obligation on all home owners, home builders and landlords to act.
You may feel that this new EPC Regulation is a little hard to swallow In light of the current economic crisis, and the state of the British economy. And who could blame you. Unfortunately failure to comply with this law could result in severe penalties.
For more information please follow these links:
EPC Law | How EPC Law Affects Me | EPC Grants & Benefits
What happens if I don't have an EPC?
You could be fined between £500-£5000 if you fail to produce an EPC when Required To Do So
The energy performance regulations state: "Failure to provide an EPC when required means you may be liable for a civil penalty notice in accordance with EPC Law / EPC Regulations."
How Will the EPC Fines/EPC Penalties Effect Me?
The law is very simple. If don’t obtain an EPC before you sell or rent out your property, then you will be subjected to a fine in the form of a fixed penalty notice. Based on average house prices in England in 2009 being at £160,000, you could be charged (at the rate of 12.5%) almost £1600.
EPC’s are easy to get and fairly cheap. The best course of action would be to avoid the penalties and get an EPC for your property as soon as possible. There are many EPC benefits - you may even be entitled to EPC Grants from the government, grants that are aimed at promoting energy saving schemes.
How do I instruct an EPC to be carried out on my property?
Instructing us to carry out an Energy Performance Certificate could not be easier all you will need to do is contact us on 01443 410646 where we can then arrange for our DEA to carry out the survey.
