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What is An EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that provides information on the energy efficiency of a building. It also outlines how much money can be saved by making improvements such as installing insulation or improving heating systems. Additionally, an EPC will recommend ways to improve the energy efficiency of the property. This document must be produced by a qualified assessor who can assess your property’s energy performance and give advice on increasing its efficiency levels.
Why Do Homeowners and Landlords Need an EPC?
There are several reasons why homeowners and landlords in Cowbridge need to get an EPC done. One of the main reasons is that since 2018, all rental properties must have an EPC rating of at least an E before they can be rented out. This ensures that rental properties are up to standard when it comes to energy efficiency. Secondly, getting an EPC done can help landlords make improvements which will reduce utility bills for tenants, making the property more attractive to potential tenants. Lastly, having a good EPC rating can increase the value of a property significantly; this means that homeowners or landlords who invest in improving their property’s energy efficiency can reap rewards further down the line when they come to sell or rent out their property.
Government Regulations
Government regulations require all homes rented out in Cowbridge must have a valid EPC in place before they are advertised for rent or occupied by tenants—this includes renewing existing tenancies or granting new ones. Landlords must also make sure their properties achieve at least an ‘E’ rating before being occupied for the first time—and if their properties don’t meet this requirement then they must make energy-saving improvements within 3 months of tenancy start date or face fines from £5,000-£150,000 depending on the severity of non-compliance according to government guidelines.
Outside Assessment
The DEA will start by assessing the outside of your property. This assessment will help them determine the age, construction type, roof type, number of extensions or attachments, and the overall condition of the property. Additionally, the assessor will look for any potential signals of insulation, such as the thickness of the walls and the condition of the brickwork.
Access
It is crucial to ensure that the assessor has unrestricted access to the property, including any outbuildings, garages, and annexes. If the assessor finds any obstructed or blocked areas, they may need to reschedule the assessment, which can inconvenience you and delay your EPC rating. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that all parts of the house are readily accessible, including side and back doors, gates and pet doors.
Inhabited or Uninhabited
If the property is occupied, it is essential to make sure that the domestic energy assessor can inspect all the rooms from top to bottom. They will need to record the details of each room, such as the size, shape, and types of doors and windows. Additionally, it is crucial for the DEA to understand how you use your property to gauge energy consumption accurately. Furthermore, if there are any private rooms or locked doors in the house, the assessor will need access to those areas to complete the assessment. It is vital to inform your assessor of this information in advance.
Pets and Your Domestic Energy Assessor
If you have any pets, it is crucial to keep them secure during the assessment period. Pets in the assessment area can prove challenging for the assessor and can range from worrying about allergies to outright distraction. Keeping them secure and out of the way will not only protect your animals, but it will also make for a smoother process, leading to more accurate or more comprehensive EPC, as your assessor will have an uninterrupted, focused approach.