The Benefits Of Energy Performance Certificates

By Author: Gareth Hoyle
Total Articles: 692
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In decades gone by, few people were aware of their home's energy performance and what it really meant.

The introduction of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) has brought the issue more into the public domain. EPC are legally required when a property is put on the market for sale or for rent. It provides potential buyers and tenants information on how energy efficient the property is along with recommendations on how to make the property more energy efficient and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

" Information to help make an informed decision

The main purpose of the Energy Performance Certificate is to make people more aware of how energy efficient a property is before they choose to buy or rent it. However, the environmental impact of a home is unlikely to be the main consideration of someone looking to buy it but it's an important part of the bigger picture for many, especially when it comes to costs.

" Reducing fuel costs

Much has been made of the rising gas and electricity prices in the UK over the last few years. An Energy Performance Certificate tells you estimated current and ...
... potential fuel costs for the property in question. The potential figures are a guide as to what you would pay if you made the house more energy efficient.

If you're buying a property and plan to stay there for a long time it will usually be in your best interests financially to make the suggested improvements so you can make savings on your monthly fuel bills.

" Recommendations for improvement

As mentioned above, an EPC will suggest areas where you can improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

Areas that are often highlighted are those where energy performance could be improved these include low energy lighting, cavity wall insulation, double glazing and replacing your boiler.

Summary

The Energy Performance Certificate survived after Home Information Packs were stopped in England & Wales in 2010 and are still a key part of the Home Report used in Scotland.

Helping people to save money and make their homes greener are two welcome benefits and it looks like Energy Performance Certificates are here to stay.

The Co-operative Legal Services website has more information on Energy Performance Certificates and they offer a professional conveyancing service for when you come to buy or sell your home.