Buildings produce around half of all carbon emissions across the UK – but, thanks to the introduction of energy performance certificates (EPCs), buyers can now tell exactly how energy-efficient – or otherwise – a property really is.
Since October 2008, every building built, rented or sold must be assessed to show how energy-efficient it is and what its carbon emissions are. The EPC will rate the building (from A to G) and will also list energy-saving recommendations to demonstrate just how much more efficient the house could be and how much you could save on your bills.
Just as with buying a washing machine or new car, homes now come with a rating from A (the most efficient) to G (the least). The average rating across the UK is D.
Renting
Fitting a European Standard certified audible carbon monoxide alarm is an essential second line of defence after having your appliances safety checked.
Since 1 October 2008, a landlord needs to provide an EPC whenever a home in the social or private sector is let to a new tenant. The EPC is only required for a property which is self-contained – it is not required when a tenant rents a room and shares facilities.
EPCs are valid for ten years and can be re-used as many times as required within that period.
How can I obtain an EPC for my property?
EPCs can only be provided by accredited energy assessors. As 90% of people in England use an estate agent to sell their property, it’s likely that most will leave it to the agent to arrange the EPC as part of the Home Information Pack.
Whoever you employ must be affiliated with an accreditation scheme, as this ensures that he or she is operating to professional standards.
For a list of approved accreditation schemes in England and Wales, visit www.direct.gov.uk, or contact your local authority.
Which should you buy?
Fitting a European Standard certified audible carbon monoxide alarm is an essential second line of defence after having your appliances safety checked.
The average cost of heating an E-rated home is £1,173 compared with just £475 for a C-rated property.
EPCs are measured using the same calculations for all homes, so you can easily compare the energy efficiency of different properties.
