Standard Domestic EPC from £50
Domestic EPCs were introduced in 2007 for sales and 2008 for the rental sector. So every property that is either sold or let requires and Energy Performance Certificate.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
When you last bought a new fridge or freezer you will have seen a colour banded graph showing how energy efficient your appliance is. An EPC is produced to show how energy efficient a property is and features a similar graph banding.
The efficiency rating is determined by criteria which the Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) is trained to analyse. Some of the things they look at are listed here:
Dimensions of building
Construction
Insulation, if any
Glazing
Heating system and heating controls (thermostats etc)
Loft insulation
Solar PV and renewables, if any
The survey is visual, so no drilling of walls looking for insulation is necessary, but if you have documents relating to any improvements then they are useful to us.
As well as the energy efficiency graphs the report also makes suggestions on how to improve the property's energy performance, which will lead to reduced carbon emissions, lower energy bills and make the house more attractive to prospective buyers or tenants.
The Energy Performance Certificate is valid for 10 years, if however you make any notable improvements to the property it is advisable to have a new assessment done to update the information.