Energy Performance Certificate explained

Why do I need an EPC?

There are two main reasons why you might need an EPC.

The first is legal. if you are putting a property on the market or letting a property where a new tenancy is starting, to be legal an EPC must be ordered before the above happens. Further to this the EPC must be made available within seven days and its front page must be displayed with the rest of the property particulars to a potential tenant or buyer.

The second is practical. All EPCs produced from April 2012 can be used to access the Green Deal. Basically the EPC will show all the changes that can be made to a property that will save more money in energy bills than the loan will cost which is paid for as a surcharge on the electricity bill. The EPC will show which measures can be undertaken at no upfront cost and which will reuire a contribution from the owner/tenant. The Green Deal launches in October 2012.