Here are some key facts about EPCs:

• For renting or selling a property, it is a must to have a valid EPC obtained from a certified assessor.
• The EPC rates a property’s performance based on the energy used per square meter of floor area, energy efficiency considering fuel costs, and its environmental impact in terms of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions.
• It reflects the energy performance of the building on the date of inspection and provides a certification.
• The energy efficiency rating measures the overall efficiency of the building. A higher rating indicates greater efficiency and lower fuel bills.
• The environmental impact rating gauges the building’s environmental impact in terms of CO2 emissions. A lower rating signifies less harm to the environment.
• The certificate provides information about the building’s energy and environmental performance and suggests potential improvements.
• EPCs have a validity of 10 years.

The certificate does not tell you:

• The value of the building or cover things that are more specifically considered when a valuation is provided, such as the locality of the building or the availability of public transport or facilities.
• About the condition of the building or its services, or about any health and safety risks noted by the Energy Assessor except in respect of such risks to the Energy Assessor as may restrict the scope of the inspection. A seller, buyer, or lender who needs advice on subjects that are not covered by the certificate must arrange for it to be provided separately.

What is inspected?

The Energy Assessor inspects the inside and outside of the main building and the visual parts of the gas and electricity services. No parts of the building requiring access equipment will be inspected except lofts which can be safely accessed from a 3-meter ladder (which the Energy Assessor will provide).

Important Notice:

The inspection is non-invasive. This means the Energy Assessor does not take up carpets, floor coverings, or boards, move furniture, or remove the contents of cupboards. Also, the Energy Assessor does not remove secured panels or undo electrical fittings. If access to the boiler or other key heating or cooling plant is not possible, it is likely that an EPC cannot be produced, and the inspection will have to be abandoned. A fee may still be charged for the initial inspection of the building.

The Energy Assessor will state in a covering letter where it was not possible to inspect any parts of the building that are normally reported on. Where the Energy Assessor has reason to be concerned about other parts, the letter will inform you about any further investigations that are needed. The Energy Assessor does not report on the cost of the remedial work or how these recommendations should be carried out.