FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take and what will you do?

For an average property, the on-site "fact finding" survey takes approximately half an hour to complete. This includes taking measurements, collecting data on heating systems and energy efficiency measures. All rooms need to be accessed, even the loft space. As well as electronic notes, it is a legal requirement to take photographs to back up the data collection. These photos are not used within the sales particulars and are just for reference - only to be occasionally reviewed by the accreditation body to ensure accuracy. The UK The Data Protection Act applies to all information and photographs collected.

Who needs an EPC?

By Law, all properties marketed for sale or to let in England and Wales now require an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate). Once completed, these reports are valid for 10 years. An EPC must be ordered before a property can be marketed for sale or rent and the EPC must be produced within 28 days of original marketing date.

Whats the purpose of an EPC?

EPC report it will highlight or recommend how you can improve the ecological and carbon footprint and thereby personally saving you money by implementing the recommendations suggested within the report. These can include something as simple and obvious as recommended specifications and type of loft insulation, cavity wall infill, temperature and central heating regulating systems etc. Where recommendations are implemented in full this could potentially save you between £80-£300 on your energy bills per annum.

The EPC report is available to prospective buyers and tenants so that they can assess how energy efficient the property is and to highlight areas that need to be updated or improved for the benefit of increased energy efficiency and reduced carbon dioxide emissions.

What if I don't order an EPC?

There are fixed penalties for failing to provide an EPC or make one available when required. The fixed penalty set by the government is £200 per property. This is enforced by the local trading standards. Added to this, Estate Agents can’t market your property without one!

What are Solar Panel EPCs?

Solar panel EPCs are calculated and completed in the same as a standard EPC. Properties installing solar panels after 1st April 2012 will be required to produce an Energy Performance Certificate with a rating of ‘D’ or above to qualify for a full FIT government subsidy on the electricity feeder tariff.

Websites of Interest

For further information on the legislation and legal requirements surrounding EPCs, visit the Government’s website: www.direct.gov.uk

For energy saving advice & government funding schemes visit:
www.energysavingtrust.org.uk