Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) tell you how energy efficient a property is on a scale of A-G. The most efficient properties - which should have the lowest fuel bills - are in band A. The Certificate also explains on a scale of A-G, the impact the property has on the environment. Better-rated properties should have less impact through carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

The average property in the UK is in bands D-E for both ratings. The Certificate includes recommendations on ways to improve the property's energy efficiency to save money and help the environment.

What does an assessment for an EPC involve?

An accredited energy assessor will need to physically inspect the property and collect information. This will include external or internal measurements, details about the construction and the type of heating/hot water used in the property. The assessor will need to access all the rooms in the property as well as the boiler and loft. The assessor will need to take photographs of items such as heaters and meters.

What is a commercial EPC

A commercial EPC is a document that needs to be in place prior to marketing a commercial property for sale or let.  This has been introduced as part of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive 2007 to help reduce the carbon emissions from commercial buildings.

The energy assessor will need to gather a range of information, either through a site inspection, using detailed building plans or a combination of both. The information that will be required to produce an EPC includes:

the individual spaces or zones in use within the building and their dimensions (either as verified from plans or as measured). This information is most readily provided by building plans;

the activities conducted within the zones. Examples of zones include retail space, office space, kitchens, storage etc;

the heating and ventilation services for each zone (including type of system, metering controls, fuel used etc);

the lighting and controls used for each zone;

the construction of the fabric of the building and thermal efficiency of the materials used: roof, floors, walls and glazing.

How can auctionmove.co.uk help?

auctionmove.co.uk are proud to be associated with Property Search Group (PSG).  PSG Energy has fully qualified Domestic Energy Assessors who have a wealth of experience in dealing with EPCs for marketed residential sales, private residential sales and the rental and social sector.

PSG Energy are also experienced in project management for larger portfolios and can tailor their services to suit your needs.