EPCs Explained

The Energy Performance Certificate or EPC is the energy efficiency rating of a property. The rating is represented graphically on a scale from A to G, where A stands for the most energy efficient performance and G the least energy efficient. In addition to this the property is also rated to show its environmental impact as a building in terms of Carbon Dioxide or CO2 emissions.

EPC’s are the direct outcome of the European Union Directive 2002/91/EC, inspired by the Kyoto Protocol to cut carbon emissions to prevent further ecological deterioration due to increased CO2. This has been incorporated into Part 5 of the UK Housing Act 2004, which requires all houses and buildings in the UK to have EPCs by 2010.

An Energy Performance Certificate is the most vital ‘required’ document in a Home Information Pack as it helps buyers take the right decisions by providing them with adequate information, as the higher the rating the better the energy efficiency of the building with lower fuel bills.

October 1st 2008 Deadline!

You may have started to see the government advertisements warning of the approaching October 1st deadline - after this date all properties offered for sale or rental will be required to have an EPC.

This extension into the rental market is going to have a significant impact. Any property undergoing a change of tenant after October 1st will require an EPC which must be produced and shown to any prospective tenant. The rental EPC lasts for 10 years!

We at The HIP Squad are aware that many Landlords and letting agents will leave it to the last moment to act and at this time a frenzy to comply will occur, and there is a strong possibility that a situation may arise due to the high number of rental properties requiring EPCs where a backlog and delay will prevent properties from being offered for rental until compliant with the legislation.

Landlords and Letting Agents are taking the initiative by commissioning their EPCs for their properties now and using these reports to promote lower running costs and future energy savings in marketing their properties to prospective tenants.