FAQ's
What is an
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document
showing the Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact of a property, based on a survey/assessment. The EPC contains information
to show current & potential ratings as well as information and recommendations on how to improve the rating to reduce
energy bills and COČ Emissions.
What is a Home Informaton Pack (HIP)?
A Home Information Pack (HIP) is a seller's pack of information required
by law to be provided for residential sales in England & Wales. The HIP contains an EPC as well as other information including
Title Deeds, Local Authority & Drainage Searches.
Why do I need an Energy Performance
Certificate (EPC) to sell my home?
From June 1st 2007 all properties will require a Home Information
Pack (HIP) before they can be placed on the market. HIP's forms part of the government's commitment to tackle the problems
associated with climate change and working towards more efficient use of energy, as part of the Kyoto Protocol the government
committed to achieve a 60% cut in UK carbon dioxide emissions by 2050.
The EPC will form part of the Home Information Pack
which from June 1st 2007 is a legal requirement for the sale of residential property in the UK.
Can I put my own HIP together
for a private sale?
Indeed, if placed on the open market*, the EPC has to be arranged through a qualified
and accredited Domestic Energy Assessor however the other elements can by completed on a "DIY" basis, these include the property
particulars and searches (local).
*if your property is not being placed on the open market, ie sold to a relative,
then no HIP is required.
What are you looking for in
your assessment?
Anything that affects the thermal performance of the building. For instance
the construction of the outer walls, the type of heating system and heating controls, the amount of insulation, The type and
quantity of glazing and the age of the property.
How long does an assessment
take?
Every house varies and some inspections will be quicker than others. Generally speaking
I allow one hour for an average inspection. Much of the research, calculation and data input take place before and after my
visit.
What happens if my home gets a
bad rating?
A bad rating simply indicates that there is room for improvement energy efficiency wise.
Along with the rating, the EPC contains a list of possible improvements that could raise the rating of the home, save the
owner money and help the environment. These recommendations are by no means mandatory, it is up to the owner whether they
are implemented or not.
How long will it take to get
my Energy Performance Certificate?
Our Domestic Energy Assessor should usually be on site for
approximately one hour. The calculations are completed at our offices from the measurements and observations made on site
and your EPC should be produced within 24 hours of the visit.
Do I need to be present during
the assessor’s visit?
Our Assessor will need access to all areas of your home, including
the loft area and also examine your main heating boiler. Also a few questions may need to be asked to speed along the survey.
It would be preferable if the home owner could be present but arrangements can be made to collect the keys from an authorised
third party if this is inconvenient.
Do I have to carry out the recommendations
given on the certificate?
No, the recommendations are for your consideration or for the future owner
to consider.
