JOIN OUR DEA NETWORK
What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a report that assesses the energy efficiency of a property, including its potential for improvement. An EPC will provide recommendations on how to improve the energy performance of a property, as well as details about the estimated cost savings, current energy use, and possible environmental impact of those savings if implemented. The certificate takes into account factors like insulation, heating systems, windows, doors, and other features that affect energy efficiency.
What’s Included in an EPC?
An EPC contains two main pieces of information:
1) An asset rating—this is a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient) that tells you how energy-efficient your property is.
2) Recommendations—this section provides recommendations for improving the energy efficiency of your property. These recommendations are classified as either mandatory (must be carried out) or recommended (advised).
It’s important to note that while an EPC is valid for 10 years, the asset rating and recommendations may change if any improvements are made to the property during that time.
Government Regulations
In 2007, the European Union passed the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). This directive requires all member states to establish minimum energy performance standards for buildings and to promote the use of renewable energy sources.
In the UK, this directive was implemented through the Building Regulations 2010. These regulations require that all new homes and commercial properties in Banbury must have an EPC before they can be sold or rented. Additionally, any existing homes or commercial properties that undergo significant renovations must also have an EPC.
The Benefits of Having an Energy-Efficient Property
There are many benefits to having an energy-efficient property, both for homeowners and landlords alike. Some of these benefits include:
– Lower energy bills: One of the most obvious benefits of having an energy-efficient home is that your energy bills will be lower. This is because less energy is needed to heat and cool your home, so you’ll see savings on your gas and electricity bills each month.
– Higher resale value: If you’re planning on selling your home in Banbury, having an up-to-date EPC can actually increase its resale value. This is because potential buyers will see that your home is efficient and will appreciate not having as high of utility bills each month.
– Increased rental value: For landlords, having an energy-efficient rental property can actually increase its rental value as well! Not only will your tenants appreciate lower utility bills each month, but they’ll also be more likely to renew their lease agreement if they’re happy with their living situation overall.
In addition, being able to market your rental as “energy efficient” will make it more attractive to potential tenants looking for a new place to live.
Preparing for Your Assessment
The first thing the DEA will do is take a look at the outside of the property to determine its age, construction type, roof type, number of extensions and detachment. They will also examine the brickwork for signs of insulation. This information is all used to generate an accurate EPC for the property.
It is important that the assessor can access the outside of the property, so it is essential that the access isn’t blocked or obstructed. In an empty property, keys should be available for the back or side doors. Pets should be secured for this period of the assessment.
The DEA will also need access to all rooms inside the property, including lofts, cupboards and any outbuildings on the premises. Again, it is important that these areas are not obstructed so that the assessor can accurately gauge the energy efficiency of the property.