When looking at properties, you may have noticed within the photos there is a little chart with a grade on it. This is the EPC rating and it’s something you need to pay attention to when buying a property. Of course, if this is your first home, you may be wondering, “what is an EPC rating?” Don’t worry. We’re here to clear things up.
An EPC rating is a little coloured chart that shows you the rating of a property in terms of energy efficiency. The best rating is A and the worst is G. It is important to make yourself aware of the EPC rating and to not just take the sellers word for it. When property searching, you should always ask to see the property’s Energy Performance Certificate, or EPC.
What if the seller says they don’t have an EPC chart?
An EPC certificate is required when a property is built, being rented, or sold. Therefore, if they tell you they don’t have one, that’s not good enough. It is needed to provide documentary evidence of how much it costs to heat, light, and provide hot water. The higher the rating, the more energy efficient the home is. This means the energy bills are likely to be lower.
How eco-friendly is the property?
Here’s an interesting fact: The average UK household causes or created about 6 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. Your EPC also has a report on the environmental impact of your property in terms of carbon emission production. The average score is in the mid-50s, which is rated D.
What if the property doesn’t have an Energy Performance Certificate?
If the property does not have an EPC certificate, you can arrange for someone to assess the property. To find out how to do this at EPC Register.
How can I improve my EPC rating?
You can improve your EPC rating by reducing your energy consumptions. Start by switching off appliances at the wall as opposed to leaving them on standby. This can cut your energy bill by up to £80 a year! You could also fit an efficient, hot-water shower head in your bathroom, which could help save up to £67 a year. This will help prepare you for your upcoming bills.
Want to find out more?
You can visit the Department for Communities and Local Government website at www.communities.gov.uk/ekpd. This is the body which oversees the efficiency of domestic energy. You can use this website to discover which assessor produced the report and to find more information on increasing your home’s energy efficiency.
Still confused?
You can either visit the EPC website or speak to your local estate agent for more advice. We understand that the details behind buying a home can be quite overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. Are Joules Estate Agents, we are happy to explain everything clearly, so you know exactly what to expect from your new home. To learn more, get in touch.
