Energy Performance Certificates

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC’s) are a legal requirement set by the ‘Energy Performance of Buildings Directive’. In order to comply with the directive, from the 1st October 2008 all residential rental property being marketed for Sale or Rent must be in possession of a valid EPC.

Energy Performance Certificates tell you how energy efficient a home is on a scale of A-G. The most efficient homes are in band A and the least efficient are in Band G. Homes in band A are more efficient and should therefore have cheaper energy bills.

They also tell you of the impact of the property on the environment. This is also rated on a scale from A to G. Better rated homes should have less impact on the environment through carbon dioxide emissions.

Included within the report is a recommendation section. This section tells you how much you could save on average every year by implementing these recommendations. These might range from installing energy efficient bulbs to cavity wall insulation.

Example:

After 1st October 2008 it became illegal to advertise a property For Sale or to Rent without a valid Energy Performance Certificate. If you are reported to Trading Standards you will be fined £200 per property plus the cost of a valid EPC.