Energy Performance Certificates in Chelmsford
In the UK, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are an essential part of buying, selling and renting out homes. The certificate informs prospective buyers or tenants about the building’s energy efficiency rating and includes measures to lower energy usage and boost efficiency.
If you need an EPC in Chelmsford, we can help. Our property assessors are trained to perform comprehensive inspections and provide EPC reports within 24 hours.
The importance of an EPC
An EPC rates a building’s energy efficiency from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient) and indicates how much carbon dioxide emissions are produced by the property. It also states how much it will cost to heat and light the property and provide cost-effective ways to improve the building’s energy rating.
EPCs are valid for 10 years from the date of issue. Privately rented properties must score a minimum energy rating of E to be fit for tenancy according to Domestic Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) regulations.
Likewise, an EPC is required for newly built properties to prove that they’re ready for occupancy.
The different types of EPC
Residential EPC
All residential properties in the UK need a valid EPC. Once an EPC has expired, a new certificate is required before putting the property on the market, whether for sale or letting. Failure to secure an updated EPC may result in the issue of a penalty charge notice.
Commercial EPC
A commercial EPC is required for every building in the Chelmsford area when it is being let, sold or constructed.
The energy rating of a commercial property is based on various factors, including the construction of the building’s fabric, the lighting used and whether different zones of the property are used for various purposes. The type of cooling, heating, ventilation and hot water systems used will also be assessed.
SAP EPC
SAP stands for Standard Assessment Procedure. It is the official methodology used to measure the energy efficiency rating of a new dwelling, conversion, extension or renovation. A high SAP rating means lower fuel costs and associated carbon dioxide emissions.
An SAP EPC is issued even if the newly constructed property will not be let or sold any time soon. It is also required when the number of dwellings has changed.
SAP EPCs don’t require on-site visits. The property assessor may measure the building’s energy rating through drawings and specifications of the build from the architect or contractor.
The SAP is mainly a desktop-based assessment that uses approved software and technical computations to generate:
What happens during an EPC inspection?
Most EPC surveys for a two-bedroom dwelling take 30 minutes. During the survey, all rooms in the building including the basement, attic, bedrooms and loft rooms will be inspected.
To produce the certificate, the property assessor will need the following information:
Book an energy assessment now
Improve your building’s energy efficiency rating by scheduling a comprehensive EPC survey.
Our energy assessors are members of the relevant trade accreditation scheme. We’re also known to have one of the quickest turnaround times in the market. Unlike most EPC providers with a 48-hour turnaround time, our clients can download their certificates 24 hours after the assessment.
We assess residential and commercial properties nationwide. Order your EPC online now and get an instant quote. We can also provide bulk EPC orders for landlords who handle multiple properties. Call our team at 0203 397 8220 for bulk order discounts.
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