subject: What is an Energy Performance Certificate and why do we need them? [print this page] What is an Energy Performance Certificate and why do we need them?
The Energy Performance Certificate is part of a number of methods being introduced throughout Europe to reflect legislation which will help in trying to cut buildings carbon emissions and help to tackle climate change. All members of the European Union have now been directed to introduce EPC's as a measure to curb energy wastage and harmful long term ecological consequences. These certificates provide complete details about Energy Savings Trusts which help house and property owners, with special grants or discounts to carry out necessary improvement work.
Energy Performance Certificates or EPC for short, were first introduced back in December 2007, when it was made compulsory for them to be carried out on all domestic homes with three or more bedrooms that were newly marketed for sale after that time. Shortly after this decision was made the Government also decided that from 1st October 2008 it would be mandatory for landlordsto make Energy Performance Certificates available to tenants as part of the lettings process overall this can help buyers take the right decisions by providing them adequate information.
The Certificate gives the home a rating from A to G. An A rating shows it's very efficient, meaning lower fuel bills, while G is inefficient, meaning higher fuel bills. The EPC is particularly important with landlords, because commercial properties and public buildings currently account for nearly 25% of the UK's carbon-dioxide emissions, making a massive contribution to global climate change. The houses with lower energy consumption will have fewer expenses and will make less of an impact on the climate so will be extremely favourable. This being the case, a property with a good energy performance rating will invite more buyers.
Although obtaining one of these certificates may seem like more of an effort than it's worth, making the already demanding job of buying or selling a house even more difficult. They are in fact of benefits to both parties. The Landlord can turn it in to a major selling point if the house has a high rating. A benefit for the buyer is that they are able to find an energy efficient house that will be able to save them money in the long term.
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