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What is an EPC?
An EPC, or Energy Performance Certificate, is a document that assesses how energy efficient a property is. The assessment is based on a number of factors, including the type of construction, the age of the property, the type of heating and insulation, and more. The results are given as a letter grade from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). Landlords are required by law to have an up-to-date EPC for their rental properties in Hackney.
EPCs are valid for 10 years, but if you make improvements to your property that would impact its energy efficiency rating, you can get a new certificate to reflect those changes. For example, if you install solar panels or insulation, you’ll likely be eligible for a new, higher-rated certificate.
Benefits of having an EPC
In addition to being required by law and helping you save money on your energy bills, there are several other benefits of having an EPC for your Hackney property. Here are just a few of the benefits:
– An EPC can help increase the value of your property. Because energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important to buyers and renters, having a high-rated EPC can make your property more attractive to potential buyers or tenants.
– An EPC can help you get a discount on your home insurance. Many insurers offer discounts to policyholders with high-rated EPCs because they’re less likely to make claims for damage caused by things like mould or condensation.
– An EPC can help you get a green mortgage. If you’re looking for a more environmentally friendly mortgage, then having a high-rated EPC can help you qualify for certain green mortgage products.
Government Regulations Surrounding EPCs
As mentioned earlier, all homes and commercial properties in England and Wales must have a valid EPC if they’re being rented out or sold. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, listed buildings and properties that are used for worship are exempt from needing an EPC.
If you’re planning on renting out your Hackney property, there are additional government regulations that apply to EPCs. For instance, any new tenancy agreements that are signed on or after April 1st 2018 must have a minimum energy performance rating of “E”. This means that if your property has an F or G rating, you won’t be able to rent it out until improvements have been made to bring it up to at least an “E” rating.
Why Does the DEA Need Access to Every Part of the House?
The DEA will need access to every part of the house in order to properly assess it. They’ll need to take a look at the outside of the property to determine age, construction type, roof type, number of extensions and detachment. They will also examine the brickwork for signs of insulation.
In addition, they’ll need to go inside the property and take measurements of all the rooms. They’ll also need to take a look at your boiler and any other energy-using appliances you have. All of this information will be used to generate your EPC.
How Can I Prepare for My Assessment?
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.
If you have any questions about what you need to do to prepare for your assessment, please don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll be happy to help.