Evergreen Surveys Ltd

Energy Performance Certificates
Home
EPCs
Fees
HIPs
Energy Matters
Contact Us
Useful Websites

 

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ?


From the 1st of August 2007 it is a legal requirement to have an Energy Performance Certificate as part of your Home Information Pack.
The requirement for an Energy Performance Certificate has been set by a European Directive which all member states have to implement.
The EU has discovered that a significant proportion of energy is being used by commercial and residential properties.
Small increases to the energy efficiency in the millions of properties across Europe will result in a significant overall reduction in energy usage.

 

An Energy Performance Certificate provides details of how energy efficient a property is by giving it a grading on a scale A-G, with A being the most energy efficient.
As well as the Energy Efficiency grading a property is also given an Environmental Impact rating again on a scale of A-G with a property rated A having no impact on the environment.
These ratings are shown in a table similar to those supplied with electrical appliances such as fridges and washing machines.

 

To assess the energy performance of your property an Evergreen Surveys Energy Assessor will use a method called RDSAP (Reduced Data Standard Assessment Process).
This means that they will perform the following mandatory tasks as well as other tasks more specific to your property type.

Mandatory Tasks

  • Establish the age of your property and any extensions that may have been added.
  • Measure your property either externally or internally, depending on which is more practicable. 
  • Visit your loft space (if possible) and ascertain the amount of loft insulation you have.
  • Look at your boiler and hot water cylinder, any space heating devices and controls.
  • Check your fixed light fittings.

    If you wish to book an appointment for an EPC or you have any questions please Contact us

 

The energy report also includes energy saving measures that can be taken to reduce household bills.  These include general recommendations applicable to all of us and specific points for that individual property.
These recommendations are grouped into Lower Cost measures (under £500), Medium Cost measures (£500 and over) and Further measures

To aid potential buyers there is also a table that provides estimate energy usage for the property and a table that summarises the property's energy performance related features.
The energy rating given can be compared to "miles per gallon(mpg)" for a car.

The RDSAP does not consider any appliances e.g. fridges, TVs or any light fittings that are plugged in. It also does not consider the occupant's usage of the home.
The RDSAP gives its calculations based on a standard occupancy, a standard heating pattern and a generic locality.
By assuming these factors it enables potential buyers to compare one property's energy efficiency to another.

An example of a full EPC can be viewed on the government home information pack website at: