EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate
An EPC indicates the energy efficiency of a property based on how expensive it is to heat.
The energy efficiency of a property is shown through a rating system from G to A. An ‘A’ rated property is very efficient and the cheapest to heat, a G rated property will be very expensive to heat due to things like solid brick walls, no fixed heating solution and no insulation. This is reflected in the EPC rating.
We offer EPC’s in and around the Croydon area for certain situations such as:
An EPC certificate is valid for 10 years and is required for property transactions.
Ratings come on a scale of A-G, with A being the best rating and G The lowest (With ‘A’ usually only achievable by super insulated properties with renewables). This means that home owners and occupiers can compare the energy efficiency of different properties in a similar way to comparing the energy performance of fridges or freezers.
The EPC cost can vary depending on the size of the property and the assessment requirements. At South London EPC, we charge a fixed fee of £60.
The EPC also includes a Recommendation Report which lists the potential improvements that can be made to a property in order to:
Estate agents often assist in connecting clients with accredited assessors and are responsible for providing EPCs to prospective buyers or tenants when selling or renting properties.
The EPC is split into the following four sections:
1. Energy Efficiency rating and potential savings
2. A summary of energy performance features
3. The recommendations for improving the energy efficiency
4. Details of the properties environmental impact
Click here to check the register of all lodged EPC‘s on the government site.
South London EPC undertake EPC’s in Croydon and surrounding areas for Sale and Let of Domestic Properties, the Energy rating of a property indicates the costs of running a property and what changes have, or could be made.
Your Energy Efficiency Rating is a crucial part of your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). It’s a rating from A to G, with A being the most energy efficient and G being the least. The rating is based on the energy performance of your property, taking into account factors such as insulation, windows, and heating systems.
To understand your Energy Efficiency Rating, you need to look at the EPC graph, which shows the current rating and the potential rating if recommended improvements are made. The graph also shows the estimated energy use, carbon dioxide emissions, lighting, heating, and hot water per year.
A higher Energy Efficiency Rating indicates a more energy-efficient property, which can lead to lower energy bills. A property with a high Energy Efficiency Rating is likely to be well-insulated, have double-glazed windows, and an efficient boiler. By making the recommended improvements, you can enhance your home’s energy performance, making it more comfortable and cost-effective to run.
EPCs must be undertaken by a member of an approved Government Scheme, known as an accredited domestic energy assessor (DEA).
For new build properties, an On Construction Domestic Energy Assessor (OCDEA) conducts assessments based on building plans rather than on-site evaluations.
The domestic energy assessor visits the property and takes measurements, floor plans, and photographs of all the elements involved, then following this they will use software which uses a model for building efficiency called the Reduced Standard Assessment Procedure!! basically a way to calculate the efficiency of your property and where improvements can be made.
The output of this is your Energy Performance Certificate.
Improving your energy efficiency can save you money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. The EPC report provides recommendations on how to improve your energy efficiency, including measures such as:
Upgrading insulation
Installing double glazing
Improving heating systems
Installing solar panels
Using energy-efficient lighting
These measures can not only improve your energy efficiency but also increase the value of your property. It’s essential to prioritize energy-saving measures, especially if you’re planning to sell or rent out your property. By following the EPC recommendations, you can make your home more energy efficient, reduce your energy use, and enjoy lower energy bills.
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) provide numerous benefits for homeowners, buyers, and landlords. Some of the benefits include:
Understanding the energy efficiency of a property
Estimating energy bills
Identifying areas for improvement
Prioritizing energy-saving measures
Increasing the value of a property
Attracting buyers who are looking for energy-efficient properties
Meeting minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) for landlords
EPCs are a useful tool for anyone involved in the property market. They provide valuable information on the energy performance of a property, which can help reduce energy bills and carbon emissions. By understanding and improving your property’s energy efficiency, you can make informed decisions that benefit both your wallet and the environment.
Investing in the energy efficiency of your property isn’t just about meeting regulations or achieving compliance with EPC requirements. It’s also about creating long-term value that can positively impact both your finances and your environmental footprint. Whether you are a homeowner, landlord, or potential buyer, making energy-efficient upgrades can pay off significantly over time.
Energy-efficient homes tend to have lower running costs, and in a time of rising energy prices, this is an essential factor. Properties with a higher EPC rating typically require less energy to heat and cool, translating into considerable savings on utility bills. For landlords, meeting minimum energy efficiency standards not only helps avoid fines but also makes a property more attractive to tenants who are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact.
Moreover, properties with higher energy efficiency ratings are often more appealing in the real estate market. Buyers are drawn to homes that promise lower utility costs and a reduced carbon footprint. According to industry reports, properties with higher EPC ratings often command higher prices, as they represent less ongoing maintenance and investment in energy-saving measures post-purchase.
On a broader scale, improving your home’s energy efficiency aligns with national and global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. By following the recommendations outlined in your EPC report—such as installing better insulation or upgrading your heating system—you’re contributing to a more sustainable future. Governments are also incentivizing these improvements, with grants and rebates available for homeowners who commit to energy-efficient renovations.
Finally, if you’re planning to sell or rent your property, an EPC is not just a legal requirement but also a vital marketing tool. Highlighting the energy efficiency of a property can set it apart from others on the market. Properties with higher energy ratings are likely to attract environmentally conscious buyers or renters, and the prospect of lower energy bills can be a significant selling point in competitive markets.
An Energy Performance Certificate is more than a regulatory document. It provides key insights into how your property performs from an energy perspective, offers actionable advice to improve efficiency, and can even increase the marketability and value of your property. By investing in energy-saving measures, you can reap financial rewards, create a more comfortable living environment, and contribute positively to global sustainability efforts.