The government introduced Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Northern Ireland on the 30th of June 2008. This legislation applies to all existing dwellings which are on the market for sale, irrespective of how long they have been on the market. The Legislation also applies to rental properties.
WHO NEEDS AN EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate is a legally required document which describes the energy efficiency of the property. It gives landlords, tenants, homeowners and buyers information on the energy efficiency of their property and is valid for 10 years. It gives the building a standard energy from "A" to "G", with "A" being the most efficient. If you intend on selling or renting your property you will be required to provide an EPC or if you simply wish to have your property assessed with a view to implementing some improvements in energy efficiency the EPC will provide you with advice on how to achieve this.
The energy assessor will visit your property and assess key areas that determine the property’s energy efficiency.
This includes:
The assessor inputs their observations into a software program that calculates the energy efficiency rating and produces a certificate. The procedure is non-invasive, so the assessor may have to make assumptions based on the age and type of property. Once the assessment has taken place, you will be issued with an EPC certificate.
Improve your rating by making energy-efficient improvements, such as:
WHO NEEDS AN EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate is a legally required document which describes the energy efficiency of the property. It gives landlords, tenants, homeowners and buyers information on the energy efficiency of their property and is valid for 10 years. It gives the building a standard energy from "A" to "G", with "A" being the most efficient. If you intend on selling or renting your property you will be required to provide an EPC or if you simply wish to have your property assessed with a view to implementing some improvements in energy efficiency the EPC will provide you with advice on how to achieve this.
WHAT DOES AN EPC INSPECTION INVOLVE?
The energy assessor will visit your property and assess key areas that determine the property’s energy efficiency.This includes:
- walls, floors and loft insulation
- the boiler, heating system and heating controls
- the hot water tank
- the windows
- the lighting
The assessor inputs their observations into a software program that calculates the energy efficiency rating and produces a certificate. The procedure is non-invasive, so the assessor may have to make assumptions based on the age and type of property. Once the assessment has taken place, you will be issued with an EPC certificate.
HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY EPC RATING?
Improve your rating by making energy-efficient improvements, such as:
- Adding cavity wall or loft insulation
- Upgrading to double glazing
- Replacing an old boiler
- Installing radiators with thermostatic valves
- Using low energy light bulbs