Your Guide to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
You may have come across an energy performance certificate, otherwise known as an EPC, without realising what it is.
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They’re those multi-coloured stickers that are lettered A to G. Sound familiar? If not, don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about energy performance certificates.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An EPC tells you how energy efficient your property is and the impact it has on the environment. It’s used as a marker to detail the current and potential efficiency levels of your property.
Certificates are awarded from A (most efficient) to G (most inefficient). A property with high efficiency is more affordable to run, with utility bills like gas and electricity lower than homes with a high inefficiency rating. The average UK home is rated between bands D to E.
EPCs also contain information about carbon dioxide emissions, fuel costs and the details of the person/company that carried out the assessment.
How long does an EPC last?
Each EPC is valid for 10 years, but will only need renewing once a new occupant moves into the property after a decade. That means you can market a property — either for rent or sale — multiple times within 10 years without needing to renew your EPC.
Do I need an EPC for my buy-to-let property?
UK law requires that all rental properties have a valid EPC before the tenant moves in. It’s also your responsibility as a landlord to make sure the property has an EPC. As of April 2020, all homes on the rental market need an EPC rating of E or higher. Failure to get a rating of E could result in a fine up to £5,000.
You must also provide the EPC rating as soon as you market your buy-to-let property. This means it needs to be available on the listing page, so potential tenants can make informed decisions about how much they might pay for utilities like gas and electricity.
If you’re unsure whether your property has an EPC, you can check on the EPC register.
Can I get an EPC with Mashroom?
At Mashroom, we provide an EPC for landlords who need a rating before they advertise their property. An EPC costs £70, is valid for 10 years and will be carried out by one of our electrical professionals.
Get an Energy Performance Certificate with Mashroom
