– The article was updated on 29 September 2023
The Relevance of EPC Ratings
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are pivotal tools in the UK’s drive towards energy efficiency. They provide a clear measure of a property’s energy performance, helping homeowners, buyers, and renters make informed decisions. This guide delves into the intricacies of EPC ratings, their significance, and how they can impact both your wallet and the environment.
What is an EPC Rating?
An energy efficiency rating is a measure provided by the Energy Performance Certificate. It gauges a property’s energy efficiency, offering insights into energy consumption, associated potential energy costs, and carbon dioxide emissions. Think of it as an ‘energy label’ for your home, similar to those found on appliances.
Why Every UK Homeowner Should Care About EPCs
Beyond the environmental implications, an EPC rating is legally mandated if you’re selling or renting out a property. Moreover, a favourable energy efficiency rating can elevate your property’s market value, making it a key consideration for potential buyers or tenants.
Decoding the EPC Rating Scale
EPC ratings range from A to G, with A being the most energy-efficient and G the least:
- A: 92 points plus
- B: 81-91 points
- C: 69-80 points
- D: 55-68 points – Average rating for properties in England and Wales
- E: 39-54 points
- F: 21-38 points
- G: 1- 20 points
A higher energy efficiency rating signifies better energy efficiency, translating to lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
Benefits of a High EPC Rating
A high EPC rating isn’t just about compliance; it’s a testament to a property’s energy efficiency, which translates to lower energy bills. Energy-efficient homes are not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, reducing carbon dioxide emissions. In the competitive real estate market, properties with better EPC ratings often have an edge, attracting buyers and renters who prioritize energy efficiency.
A high Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating showcases your home’s energy performance, leading to substantial savings. Here’s why:
Cost Efficiency
A top EPC rating ensures you save money by cutting potential energy bills. The estimated energy cost becomes more manageable, making your property economical.
Marketability
Environmental Impact
Practical Steps to Improve Your Property’s EPC Rating meaning
Boosting your home’s EPC rating D and lower isn’t just about short-term fixes. Consider:
- Installing double glazing
- Adding insulation in the loft or walls
- Using low energy lighting
- Upgrading to energy-efficient heating systems
- Introducing renewable energy sources like solar panels
What is My Home’s EPC Rating meaning?
Not sure what your home’s EPC score is? No worries. You can find it on the EPC register, which stores all the Energy Performance Certificates issued in England and Wales. Simply enter your postcode to find your property’s EPC.
However, some properties might not have an EPC, particularly if they were built or sold before 2008 or fall under certain categories exempt from requiring an EPC, such as specific listed buildings and industrial sites.
Should you need an EPC for selling or renting out your property, you must engage an accredited domestic energy assessor. These professionals will evaluate your property’s energy efficiency, culminating in an Energy Performance Certificate, valid for a decade. This energy report certificate will display your property’s valid EPC rating and recommend improvements to enhance poor EPC rating.
It’s noteworthy that this service can be provided free of charge through schemes such as ECO4 scheme (learn more about Energy Company Obligation). If you qualify for the grant, an EPC evaluation needs to be performed before any home improvement and more efficiency recommended measures are installed in your home.
Getting an EPC Certificate
Obtaining Energy Performance Certificates is straightforward. You’ll need to hire an accredited domestic energy assessor who will evaluate your property and provide the certificate. This certificate remains valid for 10 years. If you’re unsure where to find an assessor, the EPC register is a good starting point, listing accredited professionals in your area.
To secure an EPC for your property:
- Engage an accredited domestic energy assessor.
- Allow them to evaluate your energy efficiency of your property.
- Receive your EPC, detailing your home’s energy rating and suggested improvements.
EPC Surveys: What to Expect
During an EPC survey, assessors evaluate a property’s structural integrity and energy use, often lasting 1-2 hours. The energy report generated provides the property’s energy efficiency rating, detailing estimated costs for lighting, heating, and hot water which is a legal requirement. By checking the EPC register, one can get an EPC that highlights the estimated energy costs and suggests recommended measures for efficiency improvements. This certificate offers indicative costs and confirms a valid EPC rating.
EPC and Its Direct Impact on Energy Bills
A higher EPC rating indicates a property is energy-efficient, leading to reduced energy use and running costs. Such homes lose significantly less heat, offering potential savings on EPC costs. This rating reflects both the current and potential energy performance, with typical savings highlighting the property’s environmental performance.
