The EPC, or Energy Performance Certificate, was first implemented in August 2007 as part of the Home Information Pack. The scheme has been designed to give a summary of the energy efficiency of both residential and commercial buildings within the European Union. Whilst Home Information Packs were abolished in 2010, the EPC remained and became a requirement for rented properties in October 2008.
What actually is an EPC?
The energy performance certificate gives each property a grade of the energy efficiency and environment impact levels. The ratings are displayed on a scale from A-G; A grades are the most efficient with G being the least. The average rating for a home in the UK is between D-E. The rating scale may look familiar as it replicates those displayed on new electrical appliances, with the energy efficiency and environment impact shown as a score from 0-100 scale and a bar graph going from green to red.
Furthermore, the graph shows not only the current levels of the property but also the potential rating. The applies for both the Energy Efficiency Rating and the Environmental Impact (CO2) Rating. You can also view an estimation of the current and potential costs for the lighting, heating, and hot water bills. The energy assessor will also make notes and comments as to what changes can be made to improve the efficiency which can help you save money!
Is the EPC a legal requirement?
Whether you are looking to sell or rent out your property then it is now a legal requirement to have an Energy Performance Certificate. If you are marketing your property for sale, there is no minimum energy efficiency rating requirement. However, for those seeking to rent their property, a change in the law in April 2018 means that there is a minimum requirement of at least an ‘E’ grade. If your property does not meet this minimum rating then any new tenants will not be able to move in. Further legislation changes in April 2020 mean that the minimum rating requirement is now applicable to existing tenancies as well.
MEES Legislation
From April 2018, Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards became legislation in England and Wales. In order to be compliant with MEES, all privately owned properties must have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of at least an ‘E’ to be let. This was extended to existing lettings of residential property in April 2020 and will be further extended in April 2023 to cover existing lettings of commercial property.
MEES do not apply in the following cases:
- Buildings legally exempt from an EPC. A number of properties, such as some listed buildings, places of worship, temporary properties, some HMOs (House of Multiple Occupancy) and holidays lets, are exempt from needing an EPC.
- Short or very long lets. Rentals of less than six months or more than 99 years are exempt.
- The Golden Rule. This exemption applies to properties where bringing the EPC rating of E or above would not be cost effective. It needs to be signed off by an independent assessor.
- Devaluation. If an independent surveyor can display that the energy-efficiency improvements would reduce the property’s market value by more than 5% then the property is exempt from MEES.
- Third party consent. In a scenario where a tenant, superior landlord or planning department body either refuse to give consent for the improvements MEES requires, or contain conditions that the landlord can’t comply with, the landlord can claim exemption.
- Social housing schemes. Regulations only apply to privately rented properties. All social housing schemes are exempt from MEES regardless of condition, quality, or EPC rating.
How long is the certificate valid for?
Once the energy performance certificate has been lodged on the national database, it’s valid for a 10 year period. It is worth nothing though that if you make any significant changes or improvements to the property within that time it is recommended that you have a new certificate issued.
How can I book an Energy Performance Certificate?
If you need a new or replacement EPC and want to make sure you are getting it for the best price possible then all you need to do is head to MyConstructor! We offer customers access to access to a nationwide network of fully qualified assessors. You can read reviews from other customers, compare pricing and also check the availability of the assessors in your area.
The price comparison nature of the platform means that all of our assessors compete for your business and constantly check their prices which ensure that you are guaranteed the best rates in your area! Simply enter your postcode, the number of bedrooms and then choose a time and date that suits you.
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