An Energy Performance Certificate or EPC is a document that provides information on the energy efficiency of a building. It is required by law for the sale, rental or construction of most buildings in the UK.
A domestic EPC specifically refers to the EPC for residential homes. It contains the following key information:
- Energy efficiency rating: The building is given an energy efficiency rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient) based on the calculated energy usage. This allows easy comparison between different properties.
- Estimated energy usage: The EPC estimates the typical energy usage of the building in kilowatt-hours per square meter per year (kWh/m2/yr) for energy sources like electricity, gas, oil, etc. This allows you to assess the running costs.
- Energy efficiency recommendations: The EPC provides recommendations to improve the energy efficiency of the building through roof insulation, double glazing, heating system upgrades, etc. The potential energy savings are estimated.
- Environmental impact rating: The EPC also provides a rating from A to G for the estimated carbon dioxide emissions due to energy usage. This indicates the environmental friendliness of the property.
- Renewable energy contributions: The EPC calculates the percentage of energy usage met through renewable sources like solar panels, heat pumps, etc. installed in the building.
- Validity and reinspection: EPCs remain valid for 10 years, after which a reinspection and reissuance of the certificate is required by law before any property transactions.
- Homeowner information: A domestic EPC informs the homeowner about the energy usage, costs and emissions of their property. It highlights areas for improvement and any associated financial or environmental benefits.
- Legal requirement: Buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants are legally required to obtain and consider a valid EPC before entering into property contracts.