Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) are an essential document for marketing your property. The certificate provides the property with an energy efficiency rating, ranging from A (the most efficient) to G (the least efficient). The rating is valid for 10 years.
Why does your property need an EPC?
In addition to providing details on your property’s efficiency, since 2008, it has been against the law to market your property without a valid EPC. This means it is best to avoid unnecessary fines, which can be up to £5000!
How do I get an EPC, and what happens if my property is not energy efficient?
To get an EPC, your property must be assessed by an accredited domestic energy assessor. They will provide the energy efficiency rating for your property. There is no minimum efficiency rating; however, a higher rating will be more appealing.
Does every property need an EPC?
There are numerous exemptions to the need of an EPC. These are as follows:
- A rented room in a house.
- A listed building where the minimum energy performance requirements would unacceptably alter it.
- A temporary building only going to be used for 2 years
- A building that is used as a place of worship.
- An industrial site that does not use much energy.
- A detached building with less than 50 square metres of floor space.
- A building that is due to be demolished.
Conclusion and next steps:
Overall, the reason that we need an EPC is so that you can provide proof of your property’s energy efficiency, this is becoming increasingly important as it can help you reduce bills and provide an accurate representation of your property to potential tenants and buyers. Now you are aware how important it is for your property to have a valid EPC; you can find out if your property has one by using the UK Government ‘Find an Energy Certificate’ tool.
To learn more, please contact Lily Bartlett on 0207 722 9898 or email Lily at [email protected].
Our blogs and articles are correct at the time of writing.
These have been created for marketing purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice.
