Following recent changes in Government legislation, properties, when they are marketed, now require a Home Information Pack. A mandatory part of that pack is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Wardle Grindrod are fully accredited and can provide Energy Performance Certificates for home owners, Home Information Pack providers, solicitors and estate agents.
The Background
Energy consumption in our homes accounts for some 30% of the CO2 emissions in the UK. Heating uses 90% of energy in the home and so improving the energy efficiency of our homes not only saves money but also reduces harmful emissions.
Energy Performance certificates have been introduced as part of our Government's commitment to reducing CO2 emissions into the atmosphere by 60% in 2050. A European Union Directive requires that when a building is constructed, sold or rented out, in the future an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be made available to the owner or by the owner to prospective purchasers or tenants.
The Energy Assessment
In order to compile an Energy Performance Certificate, our qualified Domestic Energy Assessor will visit the property and assess many of its elements. The data and calculations are used in a computer programme to produce the ratings and an Energy Performance Certificate, grading the property as it stands. The grading is determined by the number of SAP (Standard Assessment Procedures) points your house scores. It will also provide recommendations on improving the rating, if applicable.
The Certificate
The Energy Performance Certificates is graded on an A to G scale (very similar to your kitchen appliances), with Grade A being outstanding and Grade G being very poor.
Along with the coloured "Bar chart" section of the certificate there are pages including general information about energy saving and a number of specific energy saving recommendations relating to the property assessed.
Cost Savings
Energy Savings Trust estimates that by following the proposals in the Energy Performance Certificate, the average homeowner could save £300 a year on fuel bills.
Its is estimated that if just one fifth of homeowners made the basic changes (which are also usually the less expensive changes) set out in their Energy Performance Certificate they could cut carbon emissions by the equivalent of taking 100,000 cars off the roads - not to mention make a combined saving of around £100 million a year on their energy bills.
Frequently asked questions
Q How long will the inspection take?
A The assessor will normally be on site, on average, for approximately one and a half hours.
The calculations are completed at our office and the Certificate will be produced within 48
hours.
Q Will I need to be at home when the assessor arrives?
A Yes, it would be preferable if you are at home as we will need to ask a few simple questions.
We will also need access to all areas of your home, including the central heating boiler and
loft area (if practically possible).
Q Who can produce an Energy Performance Certificate?
A An Energy Performance Certificate can only be completed by a qualified and licensed
Domestic Energy Assessor or Home Inspector.
Q Does An Energy Performance Certificate need to be completed before a property is
marketed?
A An Energy Performance Certificate must be attached to the property details as supplied by
the estate agent. Also proof must be provided that the legal documents and searches have
been ordered by your pack provider.
Q Who has access and permission to view the Energy Performance Certificate?
A Permission to view the contents of an Energy Performance Certificate by prospective buyers
or other parties must be given by the owner of the pack or their authorised agent.
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