This guide provides essential information about Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). These are vital documents that detail a property's energy use and typical energy costs. Since 2008, having an EPC has been a legal requirement, similar to gas safety certificates.
We've aimed to answer the most important questions, but if you need further assistance, feel free to contact the team at Butters John Bee.
What is an EPC?
When you buy a new appliance, it usually comes with a coloured sticker indicating its energy efficiency. The same applies to buildings. Each property receives an EPC rating from A (the most efficient) to G (the least efficient). This rating informs you about the cost of heating and cooling your home.
An EPC offers detailed information on a property's energy usage and typical energy costs, plus suggestions on how to lower energy consumption and boost efficiency. If you are a landlord or planning to sell a property, you need to get this certificate before listing the property. If your current EPC is still valid, you may be able to use the one you got when you bought the property.
You can check out EPCs for any property that has one at the national EPC register.
Do I need an EPC?
Yes. Whether you are selling a property or letting it out, it has been a legal requirement to have an EPC since 2008. If you own a commercial property that you wish to sell or lease, you will also need an EPC.
There are some exemptions to this requirement, including:
- A rented room within a house – but not if it is self-contained with its own front door
- Certain types of listed buildings
- Properties that cannot be altered to enhance energy efficiency
How much does an EPC cost?
As a buyer or renter, you should not be charged for an EPC. It should be provided to you for free by the seller, landlord, or their agent.
If you want to commission an EPC for personal use to manage your energy consumption, you will need to pay for it. Prices can range from around £35 to £120, so it's wise to get several quotes.
What information is on an EPC?
An EPC resembles the multi-coloured sticker you might have seen on new household appliances. It includes:
- An energy efficiency rating
- The estimated costs of running your home
- A summary of energy performance related features
The EPC's energy efficiency rating measures your property's energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
Older properties without modern energy-saving features typically score around a D. Landlords must achieve a minimum of an E grade and can face penalties of up to £4,000 for failing to meet this requirement.
The summary of energy performance related features helps you understand the energy efficiency of various aspects of your home, serving as a guide for improving your home's energy efficiency.
Who is qualified to conduct an EPC?
A certified domestic energy assessor is authorized to issue an EPC. You can have an estate or letting agent organize this for you, or you can locate an assessor independently by checking the EPC Register for professionals in your area.
Need some EPC SOS? Butters John Bee is here to help!
Do you have a property to let? Let Butters John Bee assist you in getting it on the market and ready for viewings. Read our landlord’s guide, find an agent at your nearest branch, or get in touch with us today.
You might also be interested in
butters john bee are thrilled to announce their recognition at the 2024 Negotiator Awards, held on 29th November in London. Competing alongside the best in the property industry, our dedication to exc
Spicerhaart, of which butters john bee is part, is proud to announce that we have been awarded the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award, the highest accolade recognising employers who demonstrate exceptio