Hi, we are LAD Assessments, your dedicated EPC assessor in Corby.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to improve your property’s energy efficiency, a landlord aiming to comply with EPC standards for leasing, or someone considering buying a new home and wanting to understand its energy performance, we’re here to assist you.
What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a property. It ranks the property’s energy performance from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). An EPC gives homeowners, buyers, and tenants an insight into the energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions of a property. It is essential for determining the potential energy use and typical energy costs of a dwelling.
Benefits of an EPC for Corby Property Owners
- Informed Decisions: EPCs allow potential buyers and tenants to make informed decisions regarding the energy efficiency and cost of running a property.
- Increased Property Value: Homes with better energy ratings can attract higher prices on the property market. It can be a significant selling point, especially in environmentally conscious times.
- Identify Potential Improvements: EPCs outline recommendations on how to improve the energy performance of a property. This can range from insulation upgrades to heating system improvements.
- Cost Savings: Implementing recommended upgrades can result in reduced energy bills over time.
Upgrades Corby Property Owners Can Make
- Insulation: Ensuring that lofts, walls, and floors are adequately insulated can make a significant difference in the energy efficiency of a property. Cavity walls and solid wall insulations are popular choices.
- Heating Systems: Upgrading to a more efficient boiler or introducing a more efficient heating control system can reduce energy consumption significantly.
- Windows and Doors: Installing double-glazed or even triple-glazed windows and ensuring doors are draft-proof can lead to significant energy savings.
- Renewable Energy Sources: Solar panels, wind turbines, or heat pumps can not only improve the EPC rating but also significantly cut down on energy costs.
Government Regulations
The UK government has laid down certain regulations concerning EPCs. For instance, it has been a legal requirement to have a valid EPC when selling or letting a property since 2008. For Corby property owners, this means they must ensure they have a current EPC, which lasts for ten years, whenever they decide to sell or rent their property.
Moreover, in recent years, there has been a push towards improving the energy efficiency of rental properties. From April 2020, landlords in England and Wales, including those in Corby, must ensure their properties meet a minimum energy efficiency standard (MEES) of an EPC rating of E or higher. Failure to comply can result in significant fines.
Why Homeowners and Landlords in Corby Need an EPC
- Legal Requirement: As stated, it’s legally mandated to have an EPC when selling or letting a property. This applies to Corby homeowners and landlords.
- Environmental Responsibility: With growing awareness about climate change and sustainability, Corby residents have an increasing responsibility to ensure their properties are as energy-efficient as possible.
- Financial Implications: More efficient homes mean lower energy bills. This is not only attractive for homeowners but also for potential tenants. Landlords with properties boasting good EPC ratings might find their homes are rented out faster and possibly at a better rate.
- Potential Penalties: Not adhering to the minimum energy efficiency standards can result in hefty fines for landlords.
