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What Is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an official report on the energy efficiency of your home or rental property. It contains information on how much energy your home uses and makes recommendations on how to improve its energy performance. This can include simple things like turning down the thermostat a few degrees during colder months, as well as more involved suggestions such as replacing single glazing with double-glazing windows. The report also provides an estimated cost for any suggested improvements.
Why Do Homeowners and Landlords in Glasgow Need One?
The Scottish Government requires that all homeowners and landlords in Scotland obtain an EPC before they can put their property on the market for sale or rent. This requirement applies to all buildings – both residential and commercial – located within Scotland. The purpose of this requirement is to provide potential buyers, tenants, and investors with information about the energy performance of a building so they can make informed decisions when purchasing or renting property. Additionally, it encourages owners to make improvements to their properties’ energy efficiency as these improvements can save them money over time through lower utility bills and improved resale value.
Government Regulations
The Scottish Government has set minimum standards for the energy efficiency of all residential properties in Scotland, with tough penalties for those who fail to comply. All homeowners or landlords in Glasgow must have an up-to-date EPC before they can list their property on the market or rent it out to tenants. The certificate must be renewed every 10 years, so it’s important that homeowners and landlords keep track of their expiry dates.
What Access Does an Epc Assessor Need?
The specific access requirements may vary depending on the type of property and the scope of the assessment, but here are some common areas an EPC assessor may need to access:
- Interior spaces: The assessor will need to enter and inspect all interior spaces of the property, including living areas, bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms. This allows them to assess the heating, insulation, lighting, and ventilation systems, as well as any renewable energy sources present.
- Loft or attic: Access to the loft or attic is often necessary to examine insulation levels and the condition of the roof structure. The assessor may need a ladder or access hatch to reach this area.
- Heating systems: The assessor will need access to the boiler or heating system, including any controls or thermostats, to assess its efficiency and functionality. They may need to check the make, model, and age of the system.
- Hot water systems: If there is a separate hot water system, such as a hot water tank or immersion heater, the assessor will need to examine it to evaluate its efficiency and insulation.
- External areas: In some cases, the assessor may need to access external areas of the property, such as the roof or exterior walls, to assess insulation, materials, or renewable energy installations like solar panels.
- Utility meters: The assessor may require access to utility meters, such as electricity or gas meters, to record relevant information for the assessment.
It’s important to note that the specific access requirements can vary based on the property type and the assessment methodology followed by the assessor. Prior to the inspection, it’s recommended to communicate with the EPC assessor or the company conducting the assessment to clarify any specific requirements or instructions.