Energy performance certificates (EPCs) are a rating scheme to summarise the energy efficiency of buildings. The building is given a rating between A (Very efficient) - G (Inefficient), the EPC will also include tips the most cost effective ways to improve your homes energy rating.
They are administered and regulated for separately in (a) England and Wales, (b) Scotland and (c) Northern Ireland.
EPCs were introduced in England and Wales on 1 August 2007.
Rental properties, which have a certificate valid for 10 years, required on a new tenancy commencing on or after 1 October 2008.
The energy assessment needed to produce an EPC is performed by a qualified and accredited energy assessor who visits the property, examines key items such as cavity wall, floor and loft insulation, domestic boiler, hot water tank, radiators, heating controls windows for double glazing, and so on. They then input the observations into a software program which performs the calculation of energy efficiency. The program gives a single number for the rating of energy efficiency, and a recommended value of the potential for improvement.
Energy performance certificates present the energy efficiency of dwellings on a scale of A to G. The most efficient homes – which should have the lowest fuel bills – are in band A.
The certificate includes recommendations on ways to improve the home's energy efficiency to save money.
See an example of EPC below.
