The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an objective report showing the
official energy efficiency rating of a property. It provides clear information
to any potential purchaser on the energy performance of the property and
effective means for improvement.
The EPC is similar to the certificates now provided with domestic appliances
such as refrigerators and washing machines. Its purpose is to record how
energy-efficient a property is as a building. The certificate will provide a
rating of the property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
The environmental impact rating is a measure of a home's impact on the
environment in terms of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions- the higher the rating,
the less impact it has on the environment.
The energy-efficiency rating is a measure of a home's overall efficiency.
The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the home is, and the lower the
fuel bills are likely to be.
The average property in Northern Ireland is currently in bands D-E for both
ratings.
In order to improve the property's performance in energy terms, there will be
details of simple recommended low-cost measures and long term measures to
improve the property's performance rating.
By 2009, all buildings in Northern Ireland that are constructed, sold or rented out will have an Energy Performance Certificate, in accordance with the European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.
To produce an EPC we carry out an inspection of your property. This inspection
normally lasts about one hour but depends on the size of the property. The
inspection is completely non-invasive so there is no disturbance to your home
such as drilling or removing fixtures. It will include.
Visual inspection of the outside of the property
Visual inspection of each room
Visual inspection of the loft space, if accessible
Visual inspection of garage or other outbuildings if they contain meters or
Inspection of the heating system (boiler, heaters, water heating) and controls
Visual check of lighting
Assessment of the glazing (single, double, secondary)
Measurements of the property internally or externally
Wall thickness (across door or window openings)
Assessment of renewable energy (photovoltaics, solar water heating)
Whilst not essential, it is useful if you can provide information on the age of
the main property and any extensions, when double glazing or cavity wall
insulation was installed if appropriate and if the property is listed or in a
conservation area.
Our assessors will complete their assessment in a professional and efficient manner, the ultimate objective being accuracy not speed.
Our assessors have a well practiced routine to follow so that all information is recorded efficiently. This will mean getting access to all parts of the property.
The average UK rating of a domestic property is ‘E' on the A-G scale. Please do not be concerned if your property does not reach the rating you expected as this depends on many factors - including the age of the property, type and age of boiler, insulation thickness etc
Your EPC will be sent to you by your chosen method (postal or electronically) once the calculations have been completed.
In order to improve the property's performance in energy terms, there will be details of simple recommended low-cost measures and long term measures to improve the property's performance rating.
