We’re LAD Assessments, your EPC Near Me assessor in Market Harborough.

An EPC is more than just a certificate; it’s a roadmap for Market Harborough property owners to save money, meet legal requirements, and contribute to a greener environment. Upgrades that improve a property’s EPC rating can have numerous benefits, from increased property value to reduced carbon footprint.

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate, commonly referred to as an EPC, is a document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a property. It uses a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient and G the least. The certificate includes recommendations on ways to improve the property’s energy performance, which can lead to cost savings for the homeowner or landlord.

The EPC includes details such as:

• The property’s current energy use and carbon dioxide emissions.
• Potential energy use and carbon dioxide emissions.
• Recommendations on how to reduce energy use and increase efficiency.

An accredited assessor, who visits the property, compiles the EPC after an assessment, which includes an examination of items such as insulation, heating systems, and lighting.

Benefits of an EPC

1. Financial Savings – The primary benefit of an EPC is the potential financial savings. By following the recommendations provided, property owners can reduce their energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills.
2. Environmental Impact – Improving energy efficiency means reducing carbon emissions, which is vital in the fight against climate change. An energy-efficient home contributes less to greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Property Value – Homes with better energy efficiency ratings can be more attractive to buyers and renters, potentially increasing the property’s value and desirability in the market.
4. Compliance – Having an EPC is a legal requirement when selling or renting a property, ensuring compliance with government regulations.
5. Informed Decisions – For prospective buyers or tenants, an EPC provides insight into the long-term costs of running the property, enabling more informed decisions.

Upgrades for Market Harborough Property Owners

Property owners in Market Harborough can make several upgrades to improve their EPC rating:

1. Insulation – Enhancing loft, wall, and floor insulation is one of the most effective ways to retain heat and reduce energy consumption.
2. Windows – Double glazing or even triple glazing can significantly reduce heat loss, which is particularly beneficial in older properties common in Market Harborough.
3. Heating Systems – Upgrading to a more efficient boiler or installing alternative heating systems, such as heat pumps or solar water heaters, can dramatically improve a property’s EPC rating.
4. Lighting – Switching to LED lighting can reduce electricity consumption and costs, as LEDs are more energy-efficient than traditional bulbs.
5. Renewable Energy – Installing solar panels or other renewable energy sources can not only improve the EPC rating but also potentially provide a surplus of energy that can be sold back to the grid.

Government Regulations

In the UK, government regulations require that any property being sold, rented out, or constructed must have an up-to-date EPC. For the rental market, there are additional regulations:

• As of April 2018, landlords must ensure their properties reach at least an E rating on their EPC before granting a new tenancy to new or existing tenants.
• From April 2020, all existing tenancies must have an EPC rating of E or above.

These regulations are part of the government’s plan to improve the energy efficiency of buildings in the country, reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change.

Why Homeowners and Landlords in Market Harborough Need an EPC

Market Harborough, with its blend of historic buildings and newer developments, is subject to the same regulations as the rest of England and Wales. Here’s why the local homeowners and landlords need an EPC:

1. Legal Obligation – It is a legal requirement to have a valid EPC when selling or renting a property. Failure to provide an EPC can result in fines.
2. Local Market Expectations – In Market Harborough, there is a growing awareness and expectation for energy-efficient homes. An EPC can be a deciding factor for potential buyers or tenants concerned with environmental impact and energy costs.
3. Heritage Property Considerations – Many properties in Market Harborough are older and may require specialised attention to improve their energy efficiency. An EPC can guide owners of such properties in making appropriate upgrades that respect the building’s character while improving efficiency.
4. Financial Incentives – There may be local grants or financial incentives available for property owners in Market Harborough to make energy-efficient upgrades, often contingent on the property’s EPC rating.
5. Futureproofing – With a shift towards more stringent environmental policies, ensuring a property meets high energy efficiency standards now is an investment in futureproofing against more demanding regulations.