What is an EPC?

 

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are the Government's chosen way of complying with the Energy Performance of a Building Directive (EPBD).

 

Its purpose is to record how energy efficient a property is. The certificate will provide a rating of the energy efficiency and CO2 emissions of a building from A to G, where A is very efficient and G is very inefficient.

 

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) 

 

From April 1st 2018 landlords of residential property are prohibited from granting a new lease for properties that have an energy performance certificate (EPC) rating below E unless it has an exemption i.e. Grade II listed status. 

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Landlords with borderline rated properties (D, E) could easily find that when the next EPC is carried out they find their property no longer complies with the new legislation and falls below the minimum E rating. 

 

Advances in technology, training and EPC assessment has meant that EPC ratings are far more accurate. This, coupled with revisions to building regulations has meant the efficiency requirements of buildings have enhanced significantly since EPC’s were first introduced in 2008. 

 

There is a possibility that the E rated threshold may be raised in the future. 

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Selling your home?

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You will also require a valid EPC for the sale of your home to exchange and complete.

 

Not having a valid EPC present online with your property particulars, can lead to potential buyers wanting to view your property, not request a viewing via the selling agent as a result of the missing information.

 

Not having a valid EPC can also result in a fine up to 12.5% of the properties value.