EPC in London: A Complete Guide for Homeowners and Landlords

Navigating the requirements and benefits of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) can feel daunting for homeowners and landlords. An EPC isn't just a legal must-have; it's your property's energy passport in the bustling capital of London.

Let's demystify the EPC, revealing the ins and outs of obtaining one and showcasing how Serviceteam can support you through the process.

What Is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

An EPC, short for Energy Performance Certificate, reflects the energy efficiency of a property. A higher rating means lower energy bills for the house or flat.

It is graded on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). An EPC provides information on energy usage, carbon dioxide emissions, and fuel costs and offers suggestions for enhanced efficiency.

An EPC provides information about a property's energy usage and estimated costs over the next three years. It also suggests ways to reduce energy consumption for cost savings.

The certificate resembles the multicoloured stickers found on new appliances, scored out of 100 and rated from A (most energy-efficient) to G (least energy-efficient).

Generally, newer properties have better EPC ratings compared to older ones.

Domestic EPC

In London, getting a Domestic Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is vital when selling or renting a property. This certificate offers important details about a home's energy efficiency, helping potential buyers or renters understand its environmental impact and running costs. It includes the property's energy rating, tips for boosting efficiency, and estimated energy expenses.

Given the UK's focus on sustainability, having an updated EPC is crucial for meeting regulations and showing a commitment to reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, a favourable EPC rating can make a property more appealing to eco-conscious buyers or renters in London's competitive real estate market.

Commercial EPC

If you plan to rent out or sell a property, complete a construction project, or make significant changes to a building, like adding heating or air conditioning, you must obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Think of the EPC as a report that indicates how energy-efficient a building is. If your property is sizable, frequently visited by the public, and already has an EPC created for selling or renting purposes, it's legally required to display the certificate where people can easily see it. This transparency about energy efficiency is not just a regulation; it provides transparent information about how much energy a place uses, making it more straightforward for those interested in buying or renting the property.

Certain situations exempt a building from requiring an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). You don't need an EPC if the building falls into any of the following categories:

1. Listed or officially protected and meeting the minimum energy performance requirements would adversely affect its historical or architectural significance.
2. A temporary structure intended for use for two years or less.
3. Utilized as a place of worship or for religious activities.
4. An industrial site, workshop, or non-residential agricultural building with low energy usage.
5. A standalone building with a total floor space of less than 50 square metres.
6. Slated for demolition by the seller or landlord, with all the necessary planning and conservation consents in place.

How Long Is an EPC Valid?

Key Elements and EPC Rating System

Your EPC includes:

• The property's energy use per square metre.
• The environmental impact of carbon emissions.
• An energy efficiency rating comparing your home to others.
• Suggestions to enhance your property's energy efficiency.

EPC Is a Legal Requirement!

Whether you plan to sell or rent your property, getting an EPC in London is a legal necessity.

An up-to-date EPC, no older than 10 years, ensures compliance with the UK's property regulations. Landlords must heed this particularly, with a stipulation for a minimum E rating under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).

An EPC is not merely a compliance tick-box for property professionals. It is a substantial asset that serves multiple purposes.

Benefits of Having an EPC

An EPC goes beyond a checkbox on your compliance list. It can highlight how to trim down energy bills through improved efficiency. Adherence to these recommendations not only conforms with regulations but could also enhance your property's market value.

Identifying Cost-Saving Opportunities

An EPC comes with a detailed report that assesses your property's energy usage and recommends improvements to enhance efficiency. Implementing these improvements can significantly reduce utility bills, a tangible benefit for both landlords and homeowners.

Increasing Property Value

Properties with high energy efficiency ratings can see an uptick in market value. As sustainability awareness grows, energy-conscious buyers seek homes that ensure long-term savings and environmental stewardship.

Attracting Tenants

For landlords, an EPC can be a decisive factor for prospective tenants who prioritise living in an energy-efficient home. A property with a superior EPC rating can stand out in a crowded market and may result in reduced vacancy periods.

Fast-Tracking Property Sales and Rentals

Having an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ready speeds up the property selling or renting process. It shows that you're well-prepared and have transparent qualities that potential buyers and renters appreciate.

Contributing to Environmental Goals

Improving a property's energy efficiency contributes to broader environmental targets. By lowering energy consumption, EPC upgrades help reduce carbon footprints, aligning personal goals with global sustainability efforts.

Common EPC Recommendations

Identified in an EPC report are recommendations for energy-saving measures like:

Fitting a New Boiler

Replacing your current boiler with a modern, energy-efficient model significantly impacts your EPC rating. Consider incorporating sustainable energy options such as solar panels, biomass boilers, or ground-source heat pumps.

Installing Double or Triple Glazing

Upgrading windows and doors to double or triple glazing improves energy efficiency and reduces noise pollution, positively affecting your EPC rating.

Upgrading Roof Insulation

Enhancing roof insulation is a straightforward way to improve energy efficiency. This upgrade can significantly impact your EPC rating since about a quarter of household heat is lost through the roof.

Adding Wall Insulation

Whether your house has hollow or solid walls, insulating them helps enhance your EPC rating.

Replacing Lighting

Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs is a cost-effective and simple measure that positively influences your EPC rating.

Adopting these suggestions can significantly boost your property's energy performance. Serviceteam has electricians who are fully accredited by NICEIC. If you require any emergency electrical repairs in London, we are fully geared to serve you rebound a clock service.

How Much Does an EPC Cost in London?

The cost of an EPC certificate varies, ranging from £60 to £120.
It's important to note that there's no difference in the certificate based on cost, so it's advisable to search online for a good deal. Getting an EPC certificate in London directly from an assessor is generally cheaper than going through an estate agent, but ensure that your assessor is accredited by checking the register.

EPC for Landlords

Landlords must comply with the 2018 minimum energy efficiency standard (EPC band E) when renting out homes. Therefore, preparing your property for future efficiency standards is a wise and financially prudent decision.

Future-proving your property against upcoming efficiency standards is both astute and economically sound.

If You're a Landlord, Do You Have To Ask Your Tenant Before Getting an EPC Inspection?

You don't have to update your property's EPC while your tenant is living there unless you're making changes to the tenancy agreement. However, you might decide to get a new one after making improvements to the property for a better rating or in anticipation of a new tenancy.

What Happens If I Don't Have a Valid EPC?

If you don't have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), it can lead to fines.

Process of Obtaining an EPC

Securing an EPC in London is straightforward with Serviceteam. Here's how:

1. Hire an accredited Serviceteam EPC inspector.
2. Schedule an evaluation of your property.
3. Receive your EPC along with tailored recommendations for betterment.

Remember, factors influencing the EPC rating encompass insulation quality, heating systems, and windows.

If you're interested in learning more about our electrical advices on electrical safety and maintenance, you can check out our blogs.

Choosing an EPC Assessor

You can find a local, qualified assessor by visiting the EPC Register.
To select an accredited EPC assessor, consider Serviceteam's professional electricians backed by industry endorsements. Prompt service, extensive expertise, and accuracy guarantee you a reliable assessment.

Call Serviceteam Electricians

Ready to enhance your property's energy performance? Serviceteam in London offers the electrical services of fully accredited professional electricians with NICEIC certification for all your electrical needs. Contact Serviceteam, and let our accredited professionals guide you through. We're your all-in-one solution for any domestic servicing or electrical repair needs. Instead of making multiple calls to various suppliers, one call is all it takes.

A serviceteam project manager will be with you every step of the way, taking care of your project from start to finish.