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What Is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate is issued by qualified assessors after they visit a property to conduct an energy assessment. The assessor will inspect both the interior and exterior of the property along with any associated documents such as gas safety records. From this information, they will be able to provide recommendations on how to make the property more energy efficient. In addition, they will also assign the property with an energy rating from A to G (A being very efficient, G being very inefficient). This allows homeowners and landlords to compare their properties against others in their area and make appropriate changes if necessary.
Benefits of Having an EPC
There are a number of benefits to obtaining an EPC, both for homeowners and landlords. Firstly, having a high energy efficiency rating can make a property more attractive to potential buyers or tenants, as they will be able to save money on energy bills.
In addition, an EPC can provide valuable information on how a property can be improved in terms of energy efficiency. This can help homeowners and landlords to reduce their carbon footprint, increase the value of their property, and reduce energy costs.
Government Regulations
In addition to the local authorities requirements, there are also government regulations that come into play when it comes to having valid Energy Performance Certificates. For example, all homes being sold or rented out must hold valid certificates which must have been issued within the last 10 years; failure to do so could result in hefty fines for homeowners or landlords who fail to comply with these regulations. Furthermore, any new builds must also hold valid certificates before they are occupied; this ensures that all new buildings meet current standards for energy efficiency which helps reduce carbon emissions across the country.
On the Day of Your Assessment
The first thing to keep in mind is that the DEA will need to measure the wall thickness of your property. This is because building materials have a direct effect on your property’s energy efficiency. At least one wall for every construction type will need to be addressed to calculate the U-value, which indicates how much heat your property loses. This is usually done through an opening like a window or a door, so it would be helpful to the assessor if the windows are unlocked, ornaments moved, and furniture that may restrict access is repositioned. By doing so, you can save time and ensure that the assessment runs smoothly.
The second thing to keep in mind is that the DEA will need evidence of the existence of the Gas and Electricity meters. These meters can affect your property’s energy efficiency and overall EPC rating. To aid the assessor with this, it would be helpful to make sure that access can be easily achieved. For meter boxes situated outside, a clear path is required free from obstacles like bins or recycling boxes. If there are any obstructions, the assessor will not be able to carry out the assessment, and this could delay the process.
For meters that are located inside, cupboards should be clear enough that the DEA is able to inspect them clearly. This is particularly important if you have an older property with concealed meters. The assessor will need to take a reading of your meter serial number, and if they can’t do this, then they may have to assume the worst-case scenario, which will not be in your favour. For meters that are located high and require a ladder, ensure that there is a ladder available so that the assessor can easily access the meter without any issues.
One important point to keep in mind is that the DEA will need access to every part of your property. This includes loft spaces, cellars, and other areas that may not be regularly accessed. If there are any access issues, the assessor may have to assume the worst, which will not be in your favour. Therefore, ensure that there is clear access to all areas of your property.