Inefficient light bulbs and energy systems aren’t just bad for the environment: they’re also bad for your wallet.
But how do you know if your property’s environmentally efficient? The UK’s answer, required for almost all residential properties nationwide, is the Energy Performance Certificate.
An EPC Certificate, or Energy Performance Certificate or EPC for short, is an important way to save energy and help the environment while complying with modern regulatory standards. It’s issued after a thorough inspection of your home, business, or rental property and is needed any time such property changes hands or tenants.
While obtaining a certificate may sound like a hassle, the process can be made easy with the help of a certified professional and can also help you save money on energy bills in the long run. Continue reading to learn more about getting an EPC Certificate in your area!
About the EPC certification system
The efficiency rating system has been around in the UK for over ten years, as environmental concerns internationally have compelled governments worldwide to take action. While no efficiency rating system is exactly the same, they are used around the world to cut needless energy waste in homes and businesses.
The system grades properties on an alphabetical scale from A to G, where “A” is the most efficient and “G” is the least. Generally, properties must be at the “E” level to be bought, sold or rented.
Energy certificates are required every time a property is bought, sold, or rented and are valid for ten years. Those who do not meet the requirement could be fined up to £5,000 if found to be in violation of the rules in place.
How can I get an energy certificate?
First, it is important to understand that you cannot obtain an energy performance certificate on your own: getting a certificate requires an in-home inspection from a certified assessor.
To issue an EPC Certificate, the assessor you’ve hired for the task will inspect your property’s energy systems and overall energy efficiency in person. Items inspected may include lights and light fixtures, radiators, the cavity wall, doors or other entrances, the property’s insulation, and windows.
After the inspection is complete, the electrician will assess their findings using a computer program. They will then issue you the certificate, either in paper or electronic form. The completed and issued certificate will include your property’s EPC rating from A-G and tailored recommendations you can follow to make your property more energy-efficient.
If the property’s rating is below grade “E,” the assessor’s recommendations must be followed to make the property more efficient, thereby raising the property’s grade to “D” or above. You must follow these recommendations and secure the necessary repairs, up to a price of £3,500, before selling or renting the property according to UK law.
You will be able to apply for an exemption if you can demonstrate that such repairs and changes to the property will cost over £3,500.
EPC Certificate Cost
Overall, you can expect to pay between £60-120 for your EPC Certificate.
The cost of an inspection for an energy performance certificate can vary depending on the time taken to inspect the residence in question. Larger and older properties, for example, may require longer inspections, therefore producing more expensive certificates. You are also paying for the electrician’s expertise and training for the task of assessing your property’s energy usage levels.
Because certificate costs may vary, it is worth calling prospective assessors beforehand for a quote so that you may compare prices and get the best deal.
Could my building or home already have a valid EPC?
Yes! That’s why it’s worth checking the EPC register for your address. Since the certificates are valid for several years, it may be the case that the building you rent or call home may already have the certification you need.
You can also look up other EPCs for properties in your area if you have their address or report reference number to compare energy usage levels. Have in mind, though, that being listed in the register is optional, and that some persons may choose to opt-out of the registry just as you may.
You can also use the register to check whether the assessor you’ve hired for your property inspection is properly certified: they must be listed in the system in order to carry out the EPC Certificate inspection in your home or rental property and produce a valid certificate.
Are there exceptions?
While most properties built for residential and commercial purposes require an energy certificate, there are notable exceptions that include, but are not limited to, the following:
Properties used four months or less annually
- Places of worship
- Stand-alone buildings
- Buildings that will be demolished in the near future
- Historic buildings where repairs may alter character
If you are unsure whether your property meets one of these exceptions, it’s worth calling your local municipality to ask before foregoing standard EPC Certificate requirements.
Looking to hire a professional? Why not try our website!
Getting an EPC is a crucial step towards buying or selling your next residence. It’s also crucial to the well-being of the environment. Finally, by following electrical safety certificate recommendations, you can cut your property’s energy costs and even save money!
Want to take the first step towards obtaining an EPC and book an inspection, but don’t know any assessors in your area? You can find qualified professionals up to the task near you on our website! Try today for a quote and a job well done.
