Hi, I’m Nick, your EPC Near Me assessor in Oldham.

My aim is to provide you with clear and straightforward EPC reports that not only meet the necessary requirements but also offer practical insights into improving your property’s energy usage. I’m committed to making the assessment process easy and informative, so you can make the best decisions for your property.

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that provides details about the energy efficiency of a building. It gives the building a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and offers insights into the property’s energy use and carbon dioxide emissions. The EPC also provides recommendations on how to improve the property’s energy efficiency, which can result in lower energy bills for the property owner or tenant.

Benefits of an EPC

1. Cost Savings: A higher EPC rating typically means a more energy-efficient property. By following the recommendations given in the EPC, homeowners and landlords can reduce energy consumption, leading to significant savings on energy bills over time.
2. Environmental Benefits: Improving energy efficiency not only benefits the property owner in terms of cost savings, but it also has a positive impact on the environment. Energy-efficient homes contribute to reduced carbon emissions, playing a part in the fight against climate change.
3. Property Value: Properties with higher EPC ratings can attract a premium in the market. Prospective buyers or renters often consider energy efficiency as a key factor when making a decision, making energy-efficient properties more attractive.
4. Awareness: An EPC provides valuable information about a property’s energy performance. This knowledge empowers homeowners and landlords to make informed decisions about potential improvements and upgrades.

Upgrades Oldham Property Owners Can Make

1. Insulation: Improving the insulation in walls, lofts, and floors can dramatically increase a property’s energy efficiency. This prevents heat from escaping during the cold months and keeps the home cooler during the summer.
2. Boiler Upgrades: Old boilers can be inefficient in converting fuel to heat. Replacing old systems with modern, efficient models can result in considerable energy savings.
3. Double Glazing: Installing double-glazed windows can help in preventing heat loss and reducing noise pollution.
4. Renewable Energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable sources can significantly improve the EPC rating of a property, providing long-term benefits both economically and environmentally.
5. LED Lighting: Switching to LED bulbs consumes less energy than traditional bulbs and lasts longer, reducing both energy bills and replacement costs.

Government Regulations

The UK government has been actively pushing for properties to be more energy-efficient. Since April 2018, landlords have been required to ensure that their properties reach at least an E rating on their EPC before they can rent them out to new tenants or renew existing contracts. Failure to meet this requirement can result in hefty fines.

Moreover, the UK government has been offering various incentives and schemes to motivate homeowners to undertake energy efficiency improvements. These initiatives often provide financial help or tax breaks, making it more affordable for property owners to make the necessary upgrades.

Why Homeowners and Landlords in Oldham Need an EPC

Oldham, like many parts of the UK, has a mix of old and new properties. Older properties, in particular, might not be as energy-efficient as newer ones, which means there’s considerable potential for improvement.

1. Legal Requirement for Landlords: As mentioned above, landlords are required by law to have a valid EPC before renting out their property. In Oldham, this is especially crucial as local authorities are stringent about compliance with energy efficiency regulations.
2. Informed Decisions: Whether selling, buying, or renting, having an EPC gives all parties involved a clear understanding of the property’s energy efficiency. It helps potential buyers or renters make an informed decision and can be a selling point for homeowners and landlords.
3. Local Initiatives: Recent news has highlighted local initiatives in Oldham encouraging homeowners to make their properties more energy-efficient. By participating in these schemes, homeowners can benefit from grants or reduced costs on energy efficiency upgrades.