May 31, 2022

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

by Emma Jones

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What is an energy performance certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate or EPC is critical if you want to sell or rent your property. Valid for 10 years upon issue, these certificates detail the energy efficiency of a building using a rating system of A through to G. EPCs are vital for homebuyers and prospective tenants, allowing them to understand the typical energy consumption of a property and therefore the costs they are likely to face if they choose to live there. EPC certificates also often provide recommendations on how to improve the property’s score and make it fully compliant if it is falling short.

Are EPCs a legal requirement?

Yes. If a building is sold, rented out, or modified, it will need to have an EPC certificate that potential tenants or buyers can view. This is so they can fully understand the likely energy costs they will face when they move in. If you don’t have an EPC certificate or your EPC rating is below the minimum required (currently E), you could be charged a penalty of up to £5,000 by your local authority.

How long does an EPC last?

EPC certificates are valid for 10 years once they have been issued, and can be used for multiple tenancies within that period if you’re a landlord. That means you’ll only have to pay for one certificate to be issued (provided your property meets the minimum requirements, of course!).

What information is included in an EPC?

The EPC report contains details of the property’s energy usage and current energy costs. It also provide guidance on measures landlords or homeowners can take to improve current performance. The property in question is also given a rating for its overall energy efficiency according to a rating system of A through G with A being the most efficient and G being the least efficient. Alongside this rating, there will be the potential rating a property might achieve if the recommended changes are made.

EPC for landlords.

EPCs with a minimum rating of E are a legal requirement for landlords of domestic private rented properties in England and Wales. Landlords must have a valid certificate whilst renting out a property and before beginning any new tenancies.

Emma Jones

Emma began her career in Lloyds Banking Group, first in the unsecured & secured loans department at Halifax and later as a mortgage advisor at Lloyds. During 9 years in these roles and a further 2 years at Yorkshire Building Society, Emma was able to observe the impact of the recession, and how the banks let their customers down by denying loans and mortgages. Wanting to be a driving force for change, she stepped into a market advice role where she has been able to help clients when others couldn’t. Identifying a gap in the mortgage space, Emma went on to establish When the Bank Says No. As a keen property investor, she has been the focus of features in publications including The Sunday Times and This is Money. Emma’s greatest joy is overcoming the low expectations of their customers, many of whom have all but given up on getting a mortgage due. One thing Emma has learned through her own personal struggles is every client must be treated like a human and understood better by advisors and lenders in the industry. “We all have to navigate life events which can ultimately impact your financial status. It shouldn’t mean dreams of homeownership or business growth should have the breaks applied”. Emma and her team’s passion for helping people overcome the challenges they may face when applying for a mortgage have fuelled the success of When the Bank Says No.