Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
Domestic EPCs
An EPC is a legally valid document which provides an energy efficiency rating (displayed on an A-G scale) in relation to a property’s running costs. This rating will take into account the potential energy performance of the property itself (the fabric) and its services (heating, lighting, hot water etc).
An EPC is required in the UK whenever a property is marketed for sale or rent or is newly built. The EPC is valid for 10 years or until a newer EPC is produced for the same property. It is recommended that a property’s EPC should be made available to potential buyers as soon as it is marketed for sale or rent.
Commercial EPCs
A Commercial, or Non-Domestic, EPC displays the energy performance of a commercial building on an A+ to G scale (A+ indicating net zero and G being the worst performing). The rating is based on the estimated carbon emissions of the building, unlike EPCs for existing dwellings which are based on a property’s estimated running costs.
You need a Non-Domestic EPC in order to build, sell or let a non-domestic property.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) require landlords in the private rented sector to have an EPC with an E rating or higher before they can issue a new lease for a property.
A new EPC is not required every time a property is let or sold provided it is no more than 10 years old.
Floor Plans
EPC Marketing floor plans have become an expected part of sales particulars in today’s property market; not only do they give an immediate impression of the features and layout of the accommodation, but also an estimate of the size in square meters.
Furthermore, the orientation of the building enables prospective purchasers to see, at a glance, how each room will benefit from sunlight at different times of the day.
The presence of a floorplan in online property details is associated with a higher rate of viewing appointments.
EPC Management Services Ltd. is set up to provide a range of professional advice and services carried out by a Chartered Surveyor; these include:
- RICS Homebuyer’s Reports – otherwise known as a Level 2 survey and carried out on a template provided by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors; ideally suited to properties built from the early 1900’s, this survey provides prospective purchasers with a wide ranging assessment of the subject property, which can be with or without valuation advice.
- RICS valuations for Help to Buy needs and selected other valuations, although NOT including those required in connection with the financing of your purchase.
- Property Management – EPCMS represents a number of clients who require their premises to be managed.
- Sale or Purchase – with years of experience in the estate agency field, independent advice can sometimes be welcome.
