Energy Efficiency Assessments
for Architects, Property Developers, Landlords, Estate Agents and Conveyancers

Home     SAP Calculations     Energy Performance Certificates     HIPs     Contact Us    Useful Links

Energy Performance Certificates

EPC Content

The content of an EPC is defined by regulations. It contains graphics which show the current Energy Rating and the Environmental Impact Rating of the property. More importantly, it also contains recommendations for improving these ratings where appropriate, with an indication of their costs, and it shows the potential ratings and cost savings that could be achieved if the recommendations are followed. An example EPC can be seen here

EPC Preparation

A detailed inspection of the property is carried out, looking at the property's age, its construction, heating system, any double glazing, loft insulation, etc. The findings from the inspection are entered into a government-approved computer programme that analyses the data and produces the EPC. For a typical 3-bedroom house the inspection normally takes about an hour (longer for more complex properties) and the assessor will need access to all parts of the house, including the loft, the airing cupboard, the electricity meter and the central heating boiler. The actual EPC production is done later at the assessor's office and will then be sent to the client or agent, usually by email.

What does the client have to do?

An appointment will need to be made for the inspection to be carried out. It is best if the vendor is present during the inspection as the assessor will need to ask some questions. If this is not possible then it may be necessary for the assessor to make assumptions or to ask the questions later by telephone.

If the property is vacant then access will obviously need to be arranged.

Please note that the assessor will not enter a house where only children or teenagers are present, or where he considers that it entails a risk to personal safety (e.g. from aggressive people or animals).

What does it cost?

[Back]