What is an EPC Certificate?
EPC is short for Energy Performance Certificate. The certificate is provided as the result of inspection and gives a property an energy efficiency rating on a scale of A to G. On the scale A represents the most efficient property and G the least. The certificate can also include recommendations for improvement.
Who needs one?
All landlords need an EPC for their rental property, as do homeowners who wish to sell their property.
Since 2018 all properties being let or sold in England and Wales need to have a minimum rating of ‘E’ or above. As of April 2020 this applied to all existing tenancies, not just new ones or renewals. In Scotland the requirement is to have an EPC certificate, but there is not a current minimum rating.
Current proposals
In England and Wales the government has proposed that all rental properties will need an EPC rating of C or above by 2025. This will apply to new tenancies initially and by 2028 it will be extended to existing tenancies.
The aim is to reduce carbon emissions and to enforce this the penalty will be raised for not having a valid EPC from £5,000 to £30,000. The fine for not having an EPC in Scotland remains at a more modest maximum of £500.
Who can provide you with an EPC?
EPC certificates are provided by a domestic energy assessor. To become an assessor the individual will need to be suitably qualified, normally by completing a suitable training course (level 3 domestic energy assessment) and be a member of an approved accreditation scheme.
How can I improve my EPC RATING?
Many landlords, particularly of older properties are concerned about the target and the potential costs involved of making the necessary improvements. However there are some basic steps that can be taken to improve the rating of a property including;
· Upgrading your lighting to LED light bulbs
· Insulating walls and roof
· Insulating hot water cylinders
These are lower cost options that things like replacing the boiler or installing solar panels but will have a positive impact.