What is an EPC
What is an EPC
What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is one of many new measures that are being applied across the EU member countries to improve energy efficiency. An EPC provides two key pieces of information:
- The energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A - G (The most efficient being A and G the least efficient.
- The environmental impact of a property.
It also provides recommendations and cost effective ways to improve the energy efficiency of a property. The benefit is that, if acted upon, this can mean lower energy bills due to lower consumption, and in turn lower carbon emissions.
When is an EPC required?
By 2009, as part of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), all buildings in the UK that are constructed, sold or rented out will be required to have an EPC.
- A new EPC is required every time the property is marketed.
- Landlords must provide an EPC to prospective tenants the first time the property is let, or are let after October 2008. The EPC is valid for ten years.