Energy Performance Certificate
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) identifies the energy efficiency rating of a property. The rating is represented graphically on a scale from A to G, where A stands
for the most efficient energy performance and G for the least.
The EPC illustrates an environmental impact that an individual property has in terms of Carbon Dioxide and CO2 emissions.
Energy Performance Certificates
are a result of European Union Directive 2002/91/EC inspired by the Kyoto Protocol that aims to cut back on energy consumption and ecological deterioration caused by CO2 emissions.
It is estimated some 40% of the total energy used in the UK derives
from domestic property consumption. Introducing the EPCs is believed to be a measured step in reducing this market trend, highlighting more economical energy efficient ways to heat homes.
Energy Performance Certificates provide details on Energy Saving
Trusts who may help property owners find access to, special grants or discounted methods of payment to carry out energy saving projects that are deemed necessary.
Home Information Packs (HIPs) now contain EPCs as a vital component within, to information
relating to properties being bought or sold. The government believes this initiative will support a greener housing market through speed of transactions and transparency.
Property owners who are contemplating selling can either obtain an EPC by directly
seeking the services of an independent Domestic Energy Assessor or ask a local property agent to organise an assessment through their own avenues.
An EPC inspection will normally take approximately 45 minutes to one hour depending on the property size.
Once this exercise has taken place the Assessor will issue a certificate promoting the efficiency levels found in the survey.
Incorporated in part 5 of the UK Housing Act 2004, this directive requires all homes to have an EPC by 2015.