Energy Performance Certificates in Plymouth
At Energy Performance Certificates, we specialise in issuing EPCs in Plymouth. As such, we are able to help our clients meet the legal requirements needed for selling and renting property, as well as following new construction.
Our assessors have the necessary qualifications and training to complete a thorough assessment of your building and produce an EPC report in 24 hours or less.
WHAT IS AN EPC?
Before you can sell or rent your property, you will need an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate). This certificate assesses a property’s energy efficiency and then rates it on a scale from A to G, where A is the most efficient.
Moreover, the EPC shows the property’s carbon dioxide emissions in tonnes. Here, a lower rating means there is a greater impact from CO2 emissions, whereas a higher rating means there is less of an impact. You will also find recommendations for reducing your emissions in the certificate.
The Domestic Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) Regulations require that a property must have an EPC rating of no less than an E in order to be able to rent or sell it.
Lastly, EPCs are required for new properties in order to make sure they are approved for occupancy. If you built new construction or are planning on doing so, it’s important to schedule an assessment of your property.
TYPES OF EPC
The following is a closer look at the different property types that must have a valid energy performance certificate. In most cases, a valid EPC refers to a certificate that is less than 10 years old.
RESIDENTIAL EPC
An EPC is required for all UK residential properties. Once you receive your EPC, the certificate is usually valid for a period of 10 years. If it’s been more than 10 years since you got your last EPC, we recommend that you get a new certificate, especially if you’re planning to rent, sell, or make any modifications.
You must present your EPC to any respective tenant or buyer if you are renting or selling your property. Furthermore, landlords must also have an energy assessment completed on their rental property every 10 years. Failure to do so could result in a fine for being non-compliant.
COMMERCIAL EPC
EPCs are also required for commercial properties before they can be sold or leased. Please note that property owners are responsible for providing a copy of the EPC to the tenant or buyer at no cost.
What’s more, a commercial EPC measures the energy efficiency of a property based on its carbon dioxide emissions. As such, it is not comparable to a residential EPC, which estimates the dwelling’s energy use and potential annual cost savings.
SAP EPC
Even if you aren’t planning to sell or rent, an SAP EPC is necessary for any newly constructed or converted property. In addition, an SAP EPC is also required in the event that the number of dwellings in your property has changed.
It’s important to note that an SAP EPC is different from a regular assessment because the former doesn’t require an on-site visit. Instead, an SAP EPC assessment only requires drawings and specifications for the construction. These can be obtained from the architect or contractor.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING AN EPC INSPECTION
A typical EPC inspection for a two-bedroom house takes around 30 minutes to complete. During the inspection, the assessor will inspect every room of the property, including but not limited to:
As per EPC inspection regulations, the assessor will take photographs of the following to provide proof of their findings in the EPC Report:
Windows: Type of glazing and any weatherproofing present
Heating System: The type of heating system and its controls.
Hot Water System: This depends on whether the property has a main heating system or a separate hot water system
Lighting: LED, halogen bulbs, etc.
Renewable Technologies: Any present, such as solar panels
ORDER AN EPC FROM ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATES
At Energy Performance Certificates, we make it easy to update your EPC with just a few clicks. Simply select the type of property you have and place your EPC order online. Within two working days, you will be contacted by one of our assessors to arrange your inspection.
When you choose Energy Performance Certificates in Plymouth, you can look forward to fast turnaround times and efficient service from industry professionals. So contact us today for an instant quote or any other enquiries on 0203 397 8220.
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