EPC Frequently asked questions - FAQs
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What is an energy performance certificate (EPC)?
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If following an EPC i make amendments to my property will I have to have a new epc conducted?
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The costs shown on the EPC are higher than my actual energy bills for the year, why is this?
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How do I check that the epc assessor attending to conduct the epc is properly qualified?
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These FAQs have not answered my question. What can I do now?
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An accredited Energy Assessor visits the property to collect only the data required for assessing energy features, and generates an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) using government-approved software. The assessment is based on the construction and type of dwelling and relevant fittings (heating systems, insulation or double glazing, for example). It is not a structural or building survey, condition report or property valuation. An EPC should not be read as a comment on the overall condition of the property nor will it comment on the presence or otherwise of asbestos, high alumina cement concrete, additives including calcium chloride, or any building defects or hazardous materials. It will also not cover items or problems in the property which would be picked up in a building survey, which may be costly to rectify, as these are outside the scope of the data collected.
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Why do I require an epc?
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An EPC has been a legal requirement since 2008 for any property, whether commercial or domestic, that is to be sold or let. Since April 2012, legislation has been set in place that makes it illegal no to also market a property without a valid EPC and the responsibility is now jointly shared with Landlord/Property owner and Estate or Letting Agent to ensure the property has a valid EPC before being put up for market.
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How do I know if my property already has an epc?
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You can check to see if a property has an Energy Performance Certificate by visiting the Landmark website and searching using your property postcode. If you have lived there since before 2008 and have never instructed an EPC on the property, the chances are, the property will not have a valid EPC.
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How long does it take to conduct an EPC?
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The length of time needed for the assessment can vary depending on the size of your property, although the average time taken is between 30-60 minutes.
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How much does an EPC cost?
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The cost of an EPC varies depending on the size of your property. Please see our prices tab for further details on prices.
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How long is an EPC valid?
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A standard Energy Performance Certificate is valid for ten years from the issue date and can be used whenever required within that time frame.
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What if I am unhappy with my EPC rating?
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When you receive your EPC Rating, you’ll also get recommendations about your property on how the score can be improved, This can be found on page 3 of your report. Alternatively speak to your energy assessor, whose details can be found in the ‘About this document’ section of the EPC.
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If following an EPC i make amendments to my property will I have to have a new epc conducted?
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If works have been done to the property which affect its energy rating, this will invalidate your report. If you are unsure if you require an updated survey please contact our team for more info.
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How will I receive my epc?
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You will be emailed with your completed EPC certificate as soon as it is ready. EPC certificates can be sent via post if requested.
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What happens if I don’t get an EPC?
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If you don’t get an EPC for the property when required, then you will be faced with a fine, enforced by Trading Standards, that can be anywhere from £200 to £5000 depending on the rateable value of the property. There is a 7 day grace period to rectify the situation and this is easily done by simply booking an EPC. Once booked the property is legal to market and the EPC certificate can be with you in 48 hours.
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The costs shown on the EPC are higher than my actual energy bills for the year, why is this?
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EPCs use standardised assumptions so as to make properties directly comparable while still reflecting the features of individual properties. The EPC costs are based on a number of assumptions: a standardised heating pattern, number of occupants, hot water usage, etc. These factors vary appreciably between different households even if living in similar properties.
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How do I check that the epc assessor attending to conduct the epc is properly qualified?
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All assessors have their own accreditation number, this can be found on the EPC or can also be checked on the Landmark official register of UK assessors.
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I have added insulation to my house, but the rating is low and the insulation is not shown on the EPC, why is this?
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The energy assessment is non-invasive. For insulation to be included in the assessment there must be evidence, either visual or documentary, of specific works relating to the property being assessed. If insulation has been added but there is no access for the energy assessor to observe it or relevant documentary evidence, it cannot be included. In these cases the level of insulation is assumed based on the age of the relevant part of the dwelling. This applies to roof insulation, floor insulation and wall insulation.
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My property is maintained to a high standard; surely the rating should be higher than shown in the report?
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The EPC gives information on the current and potential energy performance of the property. It does not reflect the current condition of fabric or fittings, nor decorative state.
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These FAQs have not answered my question. What can I do now?
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In the first instance contact the energy assessor, whose details can be found in the ‘About this document’ section of the EPC. If the assessor is unable to resolve the issue to your satisfaction, contact their accreditation scheme whose details are given in the same section.
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