Energy Performance Certificates

The Energy Performance Certificate or EPC is the energy efficiency rating of a building. The basis of this, is to try & predict the fuel cost of the property - the higher the rating, the better.

The rating is represented in a graphical format, thus making it easy to understand. With a scale of A to G, with A being the most efficient energy performance & G being the least.

The energy report includes energy saving recommendations that can reduce household bills. These recommendations are easy to understand and set are out showing an estimated saving through the year.

Why are EPC's essential?

The Koyota Protocol (1997), aimed at cutting back on energy consumption, with the objective of cutting back greenhouse gases that cause climate change. This has directly inspired the European Union Directive 2002/91/EC, which has led to the introduction of Energy performance certificates. This directive is in Part 5 of the UK Housing Act 2004, which requires all houses and buildings in UK to have EPCs by 2009.

When is an EPC required?

From 1st October, 2008 all properties being let to new tenants will require an EPC certificate.

How long is the EPC valid for?

On rental properties the EPC will be valid for 10 years.