Are you planning to sell or rent out a property in the UK? Then you’ll need to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). So what’s one of them I hear you ask.
They show how efficient a property is by taking into account all of the energy efficiency measures in place.
Every year it seems gas and electricity prices are increased by the major energy suppliers. Installing energy efficient measures will ensure you’re not paying out more than you need to and keep your home environmentally friendly too.
What does an EPC take into account?
The EPC covers a number of areas in your home, including the following:
Your heating
[tweetable]Your boiler is very important when it comes to efficiency and an A-rated system could help you save up to £310 every year[/tweetable]. Do you have an efficient boiler?
Insulation
How much insulation do you have in your home? There are a number of places insulation is needed and you could consider loft lagging, wall cavity insulation or double glazing to retain more heat in your home.
Lighting
What lighting do you use for your home? [tweetable]With energy saving light bulbs you can use less energy and make a financial saving.[/tweetable]
Renewables
Renewable technology generates environmentally friendly energy to produce power for your home. This includes solar panels and heat pumps, helping you to avoid National Grid prices by producing your own free energy.
Once every aspect of your home has been taken into account, your EPC rating will be calculated. Ratings range from A (the most efficient) to G (the least efficient). If yours is on the lower end of the scale you desperately need to consider some of the above.
How do I get an EPC?
Whenever your home is put up for sale or rent you need to contact an accredited domestic energy assessor to complete your property’s EPC. The estate agent may recommend one but you’re free to choose whichever firm you want.
The EPC Register website shows all of the assessors in your area and allows you to check credentials. The certificate itself will cost between £30 and £100, all depending on how large your home is.
Once your EPC has been completed it’ll then be valid for a period of 10 years. You’ll also be able to see recommendations of ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home.
Will an EPC affect the value of my property?
Whilst an EPC rating may not necessarily increase your home’s value, research shows that potential buyers are starting to take them more seriously. After all, people don’t want to be spending a fortune on their bills and are keen to see the measures in place at a certain property. As such, with a higher rating the chances of selling or renting a property are increased and you may see a little bit of value added too.
Facts & Figures You’ll Love To Share
- [tweetable alt=””]You need an Energy Performance Certificate if you are renting or selling a property. [/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]A new boiler can help you save up to £310 a year, says the Energy Saving Trust.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]Energy saving light bulbs can save you up to 75% on electricity and last longer. [/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]An EPC certificate only costs between £30 and £100, detailing where your home is inefficient.[/tweetable]
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