What is an EPC? - energy performance certificate

What are Energy Performance Certificates ?

The EPC looks broadly similar to the energy labels now provided with vehicles and many appliances. Its purpose is to indicate how energy efficient a building is. The certificate will provide an energy rating of the building from A to G, where A is very efficient and G is the least efficient.

 

The better the rating, the lower the fuel bills are likely to be.

 

In addition to the asset ratings, EPC’s must convey other key pieces of information:

• Reference information: This includes the unique reference number (as stored in the central register) the date of issue of the certificate and when it is valid until.
• Energy assessor details: This includes the assessor’s name, accreditation number, company name & accreditation scheme. Information on how to complain or how to confirm that the certificate is genuine

 

EPC’s are stored on a national register and is the single source of EPC information for a building. Having a register helps to protect consumers.

 

The register is operated by Landmark Information Group Limited.

 

Why EPC certificates are required

From October 1st 2008 all buildings that are not dwellings will require an Energy Performance Certificate on construction, sale or let.

 

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) informs potential buyers or tenants about the energy performance of a building.
The EPC will provide an energy rating based on performance potential of the building itself (the fabric) and its services (e.g. heating, ventilation, lighting). There is a set of national standards and an EPC is accompanied by a recommendation report outlining how the energy performance of the building could be improved.

 

For a building to require an EPC it must have a roof and walls and use energy to condition the indoor climate. A building can either be the whole of a building; or part of a building, where the part is designed or altered to be used separately.

 

In terms of requirement for an EPC, buildings can have multiple tenancies, differing lease agreements, various sub-letting arrangements and different uses (e.g. mixed retail, residential & office accommodation). In general terms an EPC should reflect the accommodation being sold or let.