What is an EPC?
EPC stands for ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE. The certificate is produced by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA). An EPC is required as part of a HIP pack when selling your home and also should be made available by landlords to prospective tenants.
Only an Accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) or Home Inspector (HI) is allowed to issue an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
What does a DEA do?
A DEA assesses the structure of a property to assertain what the property is made from, and when and how the property was built; this includes entering your loft space where possible. DEAs take account of glazing, including conservatories, also light bulbs, and any solar panels or energy saving devices installed. Most importantly the DEA will study the way in which you heat your home; how the heat is produced, what fuel is used and the controls in place to regulate the energy used.
The facts are taken 'on site' and are calculated to produce the EPC later when the facts are collated and all evidence has been considered. Photographs are often taken by a DEA, in order to ensure that an accurate record of the survey is kept.
Why will the DEA measure when the Marketing Agent already has?
Although an estate agent measures the approx size of rooms for marketing purposes, a DEA needs to calculate the volume of the whole property and takes into account recesses and hallways etc, so different measurements need to be taken.
What will the EPC tell me?
The EPC will show both an Energy rating and a CO2 Impact rating for the property, which will be converted into a graph, similar to those that we are familiar with, shown on new appliances. Rated from A-G, with A being the better result.
Along with the graphs, the EPC offers energy saving recomendations and an indication of the level of cost involved in implementing them. You will also be informed of the improved rating achievable, should all of the recomendations be followed. The EPC also indicates potential running costs for the property.The ratings are registered with Landmark (on behalf of the Government) and the certificate is valid for 10 years*