Domestic Energy Performance Certificates (Domestic EPCs): FAQs
What are Domestic Energy Performance Certificates? Here are Domestic Energy Performance Certificates (Domestic EPCs): FAQs
Domestic Energy Performance Certificates are a legal requirement for any residential landlord or property owner looking to either rent or sell their property in the United Kingdom.
Why do I need a Domestic EPC?
Since the introduction of the Home Improvement Packs (HIPs) under the Housing Act (2007), Energy Performance Certificates have been a legal requirement for any property prior to being placed on the market for rental or sale purposes. As there are two different types of EPC, Domestic Energy Performance Certificates and Commercial Energy Performance Certificates, it is important that you select the appropriate certificate for your property. If your property is not going to be used as a place of business then you must obtain Domestic Energy Performance Certificate.
What happens if I don’t get my Domestic EPC in time?
If you fail to comply with the legislation regarding Domestic Energy Performance Certificates then you face a fine of up to £5000. This fine will be issued by Trading Standards Officers and be paid along with the costs of the EPC which you will still be required to have.
What happens when I have a Domestic EPC?
When you order a Domestic Energy Performance Certificate, a fully certified assessor will arrive and begin to inspect the property for its energy efficiency. The assessor will be especially looking at the type of heating used, the way hot water is provided, the structure and age of the house, the type of glazing in the windows, the insulation used and the dimensions of the rooms. You will then be given a Domestic Energy Performance Certificate with you properties standardised score rated from A to G, with A being the highest possible energy efficiency and G the least, placed on a bar chart.
Will I need to move anything or dig up any floor boards?
A common worry is that Domestic Energy Performance Certificates will require moving heavy furniture or even pulling up floor boards to thoroughly inspect the property. The Domestic Energy Performance Certificate assessment is a visual test only, so as long as the relevant objects are viewable you do not need to worry about any damage being done to the property.
How long will the assessment take?
The standard duration of Domestic Energy Performance Certificates is around 30 to 45 minutes. Obviously this will vary depending on the size and layout of the property, but generally it is a quick and painless process to go through.
I have heard that the government is introducing a Green Deal, how does this work?
The government has recently introduced a new programme with the aim of improving the energy efficiency of housing in the United Kingdom and reducing the amount of CO2 being produced. The new look Domestic EPC certificates feature recommendations for improvements and some qualify for the Green Deal. After you have had your EPC, you can contact Green Deal providers who will carry out the improvements recommended on the certificate and accept payment in instalments through your electricity bills. This will make the cost of the improvements as low impact as possible.
How should I go about getting my EPC?
If you are about to place your residential property on the market and have yet to get your Domestic Energy Performance Certificate, then simply fill out our online form and My London Tradesmen will contact companies on your behalf. You will then be given up to 3 quotes, leaving you free to make an informed decision regarding which tradesman to employ based on the quotes you have received.
So here are domestic Energy Performance Certificates (Domestic EPCs): FAQs summarised. All of the tradesmen we employ have had up to date training and are registered with all the necessary bodies. We only use reputable and trustworthy tradesmen.