EPC Suffolk / Suffolk EPC

EPC’s give information on how to make your property more energy efficient and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. All homes sold or rented in Suffolk require an EPC (presently valid for ten years).

EPC’s carry ratings that compare the current energy efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions with potential figures that your property could achieve. Potential figures are calculated by estimating what the energy efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions would be if energy saving measures were put in. We cover Suffolk and will visit the property and conduct a full and thorough assessment for you.

The rating measures the energy and carbon emission efficiency of your property using a grade from ‘A’ to ‘G’. An ‘A’ rating is the most efficient, while ‘G’ is the least efficient. The average efficiency grade to date in Suffolk is ‘D’. All properties are measured using the same calculations, so you can compare the efficiency of different properties before deciding which to buy or rent.

EPC’s also provide a detailed recommendation report showing what you could do to help reduce the amount of energy you use and your carbon dioxide emissions. The report lists:

Suggested improvements, like fitting loft insulation
Possible cost savings per year, if the improvements are made
How the recommendations would change the energy and carbon emission rating of the property

You do not have to act on the recommendations in the recommendation report. However, it you decide to do so, it could make your Suffolk property more attractive for sale or rent by making it more energy efficient.

THE CURRENT RULES (Note: New Rules being introduced in April 2012)

Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2010 require:

• All properties marketed for rent or sale in the UK is required to have by law a valid Suffolk EPC in place.
• The seller/landlord/agent has a duty to ensure that an EPC has been commissioned before commencing marketing a property where no Suffolk EPC is available.
• An Suffolk EPC is considered as commissioned when an Suffolk Domestic Energy Assessor has been instructed and paid for an Suffolk EPC or a clear undertaking to pay has been agreed.
• The person acting on behalf of the seller/landlord must be satisfied that an Suffolk EPC has been commissioned before commencing marketing.
• The seller/landlord or person acting on their behalf must make reasonable efforts to secure their Suffolk EPC within 28 days.
• All of the above carry fixed penalties when the new regulations are not followed.