Energy Performance Certificates (EPC's)

What is an Energy Performance Certificate? 

In 2006, the Government introduced new Building Regulations which raised the energy efficiency standards to which new homes must comply. This change aims to provide homes which reduce carbon emissions, preserve energy and cost less to run.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) tells owners and buyers about the efficiency of their home, and also gives suggestions as to how to improve the rating. The energy rating is shown in a similar format as that of a new household appliance, with A as very efficient through to G which is very inefficient. An Environmental Impact rating is also given, which shows how much Carbon Dioxide the home is expected to generate through its energy use.

When is an Energy Performance Certificate required?

Landlords and sellers of homes are required to provide an EPC for tenants/buyers. Under the Building Regulations, any works which create a new dwelling require an EPC to be provided on completion. This includes brand new properties, and those formed from conversions of existing properties such as flat or barn conversions, and is the same certificate which is incorporated in a Home Information Pack (HIP). When you finish your work, you will be asked to provide an EPC along with any other document which shows compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations such as SAP calculations. Your Building Control completion certificate may not be released until the EPC is complete and provided to Building Control.

How do I get an Energy Performance Certificate?

By law an EPC must be produced by an accredited On Construction Energy Assessor. The assessor may not need to visit the property to carry out their assessment, as it may be produced on 'as-built' details contained in the SAP calculation. The scheme protects Builders and Homebuyers by ensuring that assessors have the appropriate skills to carry out energy assessments and that EPCs are always of the same high quality.

EPC's must be registered and stored in the national register at www.EPCregister.com with a unique reference number.

For more information, see the following:

www.communities.gov.uk

www.planningportal.gov.uk