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FAQS
I am selling a property and have the EPC from the previous owner, is this still valid for me to use when selling?
The EPC is valid for ten years so you can use the EPC from the previous owner unless ten years have elapsed then you'll have to get a new one.
What is the penalty for not having an energy performance certificate (EPC)?
Trading Standards for the area is responsible for enforcing the regulations. An Authorised Trading Standards Officer can request an EPC from a landlord that appears to have broken the regulations. This may occur in situations such as a tenant complaining about not having seen a copy of the EPC upon taking up a tenancy. If the landlord has failed to provide an EPC, Trading Standards can issue a penalty charge of up to £200 per property (without an EPC).
Can a landlord charge the tenant for the EPC?
No. A landlord may only charge a tenant for an EPC if they require an additional copy.
Do I need an EPC if I have a lodger?
No, these situations are exempt from the regulations.
Can I update my EPC without the need to commission a new survey? For example, if a replacement boiler is fitted
EPCs can be updated within a reasonable timeframe from the date of the original EPC (i.e. 2/3 months).
Approval is granted on a case by case basis by the original assessor upon production of documentary proof.
A small charge may be made to re-lodge the EPC.
How long does an energy performance certificate (EPC) remain valid for?
An EPC lasts for 10 years from the day the property is assessed.
If I install low energy light bulbs will I get a better energy rating?
It does make a difference in fixed lighting sockets (lights secured to walls or ceilings); however any appliance that can be unplugged and removed will not be taken into account. Low energy lights in areas such as lofts, cupboards, garages and outbuildings are not included in the assessment.
Why does the DEA need access to all rooms?
Access to all rooms is required so that the energy efficiency rating can be worked out accurately. The DEA will need to determine construction materials, presence of heating equipment and controls, type of glazing, type of lighting and similar matters. S/he needs to undertake a head and shoulder inspection of the loft to ascertain the depth of insulation between the ceiling joists. If the loft is boarded, the DEA will need documents detailing the insulation otherwise the software will default to the standard insulation at the time the property was built.
What information about the boiler will the DEA require?
The DEA will need to see the boiler brand and model where possible. Access to the boiler is preferable as well as any information on the boiler. If the DEA can't see the boiler and there is no paper work available they may have to default the age of the boiler to the date of the property, which may be incorrect.
What happens if we don't have any proof of cavity wall insulation?
The DEA will look for evidence (for example small drill holes in-between the brickwork), however often after having cavity wall insulation, a house has been rendered, repainted, or repointed, covering the evidence. If this has happened the DEA can't see what has been done so s/he would ask for documents to prove it.
If the DEA can't find evidence and there aren't any documents available, the software used for the EPC will assume the cavities haven't changed since construction. For older properties this will be recorded as none but for more newer properties it will assume it's present (these assumptions are based on Building Regulations).