Domestic Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
All EU countries are required to ensure that when any building is constructed, sold or rented out, a valid energy performance certificate, prepared by an accredited independent expert is made available to the prospective buyer or tenant.
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is broadly similar to the labels now provided with domestic appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines.
Almost every dwelling being sold, rented or constructed now requires an EPC as part of the Home Information Pack. The EPC is designed to help reduce your domestic energy consumption by promoting greater awareness of the energy efficiency of your property.
Buildings currently account for nearly 50% of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that if you follow the proposals in an EPC to improve your rating it could save you over £280 per year on fuel bills alone.
What is the purpose of an Energy Performance Certificate?
The EPC will record the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of the building, using standard methodology, which will allow one building to be easily compared with another of the same type. This will allow prospective purchasers and tenants to consider information on the energy efficiency of the building before making a decision on whether to buy or rent.
The report that is included with an EPC will give recommendations which will help to improve the energy rating of the building. Those recommendations only include improvements that are appropriate for the building that has been assessed.
Newly constructed dwellings
When a dwelling is newly completed, it is the responsibility of the builder to obtain an EPC and provide it to the owner. This duty also applies where a dwelling has been converted to provide fewer or more units and there have been alterations to the heating, hot water, or air conditioning systems.
Why Terry Holmes Consultants?
We have considerable experience and expertise in energy conservation and our staff would welcome the opportunity of discussing your requirements with you.
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