How Long does an EPC Last

What is an EPC and how long does it last?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that remains valid for a duration of 10 years, serving as an assessment of a property's energy efficiency. Throughout this period, the EPC can be utilized multiple times, provided that the rating surpasses an F grade. Nevertheless, if any energy enhancements have been implemented during this timeframe, it is advisable to obtain a new EPC if you intend to sell or rent the property in order to improve its rating.

Having a higher rating on the EPC can significantly enhance the appeal of your property to potential buyers, particularly in a competitive market. It grants you an advantage over similar properties within the vicinity.

Additionally, an EPC offers an excellent opportunity to evaluate your home's energy efficiency and identify avenues for improvement. By implementing the energy-saving recommendations outlined in the certificate, you can make your home more cost-effective to operate. For example, by replacing outdated windows with double glazing, you could potentially save approximately £135 annually.

So, whether you're selling your home or renting it out, an EPC becomes an indispensable tool. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions, helps them gauge the environmental impact of their living arrangements, and encourages a greener and more sustainable future.

How long does an Energy Performance Certificate assessment typically take?

The duration of a domestic EPC assessment usually falls within the range of 30 to 40 minutes. For commercial assessments, the minimum time required is around 45 minutes, although it can vary based on the size and characteristics of the property. To get a more accurate estimate, it is advisable to inquire with the assessor as each property may differ in duration.

During the assessment, the assessor conducts a visual inspection of the property. This entails accessing all rooms, including the loft, examining heating systems and insulation, taking measurements, and capturing photographs of pertinent data for the visual survey. It's important to note that these photographs are solely used for the assessment and are not made available to the public. The collected information is then utilized to generate the final EPC report.

A copy of the EPC is stored in a national register, accessible through the EPC search facility. While the report itself is publicly available, certain underlying data may be shared with relevant parties for compliance and monitoring purposes related to the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) regulations. Additionally, the government may employ some of this data for research or statistical analysis.

Who bears the responsibility of acquiring an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

When a property is available for rent or sale, the onus falls upon the owner to obtain an EPC. In the case of a newly constructed building, the responsibility lies with the developer, who must procure an EPC within five days of completing the construction process.

What is the typical timeframe for obtaining an EPC certificate?

Upon your request for an EPC, we strive to schedule a visit by one of our assessors to your property within a span of 48 to 72 hours. Following the assessment, you will receive your certificate once the payment has been successfully processed. Please note that we do not require any upfront payments prior to the survey, but the issuance of the EPC is contingent upon receiving your payment.

Is an EPC obligatory by law?

In the United Kingdom, possessing a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has become an essential legal obligation when it comes to renting or selling a property. Starting from April 2020, it is mandatory for properties to attain a minimum rating of "E" on their EPC. Should a property be rated "F" or "G," the owner is required to make necessary improvements to enhance its energy efficiency until it can be reassessed and achieve at least an "E" rating.

What happens when EPC Expires?

Upon the expiration of your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), certain actions need to be taken based on your specific circumstances. If you have tenants occupying the property or if you intend to market the property for renting or selling purposes, renewing the EPC becomes necessary. To facilitate the renewal process of your expired EPC, you can refer to the provided link, which offers details on accredited assessors who can assist you in this matter.

Discover the Exceptional EPC Service from Us! At Manchester EPC, we take pride in delivering a distinguished EPC experience for both commercial and residential properties across London, Glasgow, and the entire UK. Our unparalleled service has earned us numerous prestigious awards in the industry. With our assistance, you can effortlessly obtain an accredited EPC survey conducted by our team of expert energy assessors, all at highly competitive prices that outshine the market. Reach out to us without delay, and we will gladly furnish you with a prompt and complimentary quote.