Time to get your home's energy efficiency on track

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is typically required in the following situations:

1. When a property is built, sold, or rented out.
2. When a property is being marketed for sale or rent.
3. For certain types of properties, such as:
   
   • Residential homes
   • Flats and apartments
   • Offices
   • Shops
   • Restaurants and cafes
   • Hotels and guesthouses

Some exceptions may apply, such as for historic buildings, temporary structures, or properties with specific uses. It’s always best to check with the relevant authorities or an EPC assessor for specific requirements.

No, you cannot do your own Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). EPCs must be produced by accredited assessors who have undergone training and have the necessary expertise.

In the UK, for example, assessors must be accredited by a government-approved scheme, such as:

• Stroma Certification
• Elmhurst Energy
• Quidos

These assessors use specialized software and follow strict guidelines to ensure accurate and reliable EPCs.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) typically lasts for 10 years from the date of assessment. However, it’s recommended to review and update the EPC if significant changes are made to the property that could impact its energy efficiency, such as renovations or additions.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessment is typically carried out by an accredited assessor who:

1. Visits the property to gather data
2. Inspects the property’s:
   
   • Insulation
   • Windows
   • Heating systems
   • Lighting
   • Other energy-related features
3. Uses specialized software to analyze the data and calculate the property’s energy performance
4. Produces the EPC report, including:
   
   • Energy efficiency rating (A-G)
   • Recommendations for improvement

The assessor may also take measurements and notes on the property’s construction, age, and condition. The entire process usually takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on the property’s size and complexity.

To carry out an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessment, the assessor typically needs access to:

1. Living areas (lounge, dining room, etc.)
2. Kitchen
3. Bedrooms
4. Bathrooms
5. Loft space (if applicable)
6. Cupboards and storage areas (for inspecting insulation, boilers, etc.)

The assessor may also need to inspect:

1. External walls and windows
2. Roof (if safely accessible)
3. Heating systems and controls

The assessor will usually inform you of any specific access requirements before the assessment.

To check if an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is valid, you can search the EPC register using the property’s postcode or report reference number. Here’s how:

For properties in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland:

• Visit the GOV.UK website and use their “Find an energy certificate” service.
• Enter the property’s postcode, street name, or certificate number to find the EPC.

For properties in Scotland:

• Visit the Scottish EPC Register website.
• Search for the EPC using the report reference number (RRN) or postcode.

When checking the EPC’s validity, look for the following:

• Issue date: Ensure the EPC was issued within the last 10 years.
• Expiry date: Check that the EPC hasn’t expired.
• Energy efficiency rating: Verify the property’s energy efficiency rating (A-G).

Keep in mind that some properties may be exempt from requiring an EPC, such as places of worship, temporary buildings, or listed buildings. If you’re unsure, consult with the relevant authorities or an accredited assessor.

The minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating for rental properties in England and Wales is currently E. However, the government plans to increase this requirement to a minimum rating of C by 2030.

Key Dates and Requirements:

• Current Requirement: EPC rating of E or above is required for all rental properties.
• New Tenancies from 2028: Minimum EPC rating of C will be required for new tenancies.
• All Existing Tenancies by 2030: Minimum EPC rating of C will be required for all existing tenancies.
• Cost Cap: Landlords are not required to spend more than £3,500 on energy efficiency improvements, but they must make all possible improvements up to that amount.

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Local authorities enforce the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) regulations and can impose penalties on landlords who fail to comply.

Exemptions:

Some properties may be exempt from the MEES regulations, such as:

• Temporary Exemptions: 6 months exemption for landlords who have recently inherited a property or become a landlord under certain circumstances.
• High Cost Exemption: If the cost of improving the property exceeds £3,500, landlords can register an exemption.
• Wall Insulation Exemption: If wall insulation would negatively impact the property’s fabric or structure.
• Third-Party Consent Exemption: If consent from another party, such as a tenant or superior landlord, is required but cannot be obtained.