What is Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for Buildings?

Reading time: 1 minute

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are certificates that represent energy efficiency of buildings based on a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). The rating denotes the cost incurred for heating and lighting the property and the extent of carbon dioxide emissions.

The need for EPCs is emphasized in the Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations, 2012. 

This article discusses the important features associated with Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for buildings.

Features of Energy Performance Certificate (EPCs)

1. EPCs provide the energy efficiency rating of different buildings. They are required when buildings are built, sold, or rented. 
2. The energy efficiency ratings of EPCs are ranked from A to G. A is the most energy efficient and G is the worst. Those properties that are rated from F or G are restricted from being let to the tenants. 
3. EPCs are not required for the following listed buildings (GOV.UK):
   • Places of worship
   • Temporary buildings that will be used for a period of less than two years
   • Stand-alone buildings with a total useful floor space of less than 50 square meters
   • Industrial sites, workshops, and non-residential agricultural buildings that do not use a lot of energy
   • Some buildings that are due to be demolished
   • Holiday accommodation that is rented out for less than four months a year or is let under a license to occupy
   • Listed buildings - you should get advice from your local authority conservation officer if the work would alter the building’s character.
   • Residential buildings intended to be used less than four months a year
4. EPCs of different buildings or properties can be used to compare their energy efficiencies. It is an ideal tool to study before renting or buying any property.
5. The figure below shows an example of EPC certificate. The format of certificate may change with different countries, but the elements and criteria are the same.

6. The EPC of a property not only highlights the current energy efficiency status but also highlights the improvements that can be made, its cost, and associated monetary savings. It is useful to the owner if looking for ways to improve the energy efficiency of the property.
7. Accredited energy assessors are the persons who provide an EPC to a building. Along with the certificate, they also provide a recommendation report that mentions ways to make the building more efficient. Find an accredited assessor for any property using the official link Find an Assessor.
8. An EPC already issued for any property can be viewed free of charge from the official link Find an EPC.
9. EPCs issued for a property are valid for ten years from the date of issue.
10. An EPC can cost anywhere between £35 to £120. The cost depends on the property type, floor areas, etc. The total cost includes the cost for completing the survey by the accredited energy assessor and the cost for preparing the Energy Performance certificate for the property. 

EPC is a legal requirement if there is a plan to sell or rent a property in UK. This requirement is an exclusion for listed buildings as mentioned before. Poor EPCs affect property value and saleability. 

FAQs

Read More

Top 5 Green Building Certifications

Top 6 Energy-Efficient High-Rise Buildings in the World