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Will I still need an EPC Certificate post Brexit?
From the first of January 2021, there will be some upcoming changes for both British businesses and citizens as the UK exits the EU. It is time to prepare and ensure that you have everything covered going into the post-Brexit era. One of the main focuses that the EU has pushed for is a greener Europe. But what happens when we are no longer part of the EU? Will the UK still be affected by eco laws and recommendations?
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson has recently announced an ambitious new emissions target setting the UK on the path to net zero by 2050. The UK is pushing to lead the way in tackling climate change globally and we are already part of the ‘Climate Change Act’ law, which was passed in 2008. This law requires that emission rates are set low and that climate targets are met. Energy efficiency plays a vital part in making this happen.
With this in mind and despite potential alterations to UK legislation in the housing market post-Brexit, it is pretty likely that the focus on maintaining ‘green’ homes will remain. Therefore, it is good practice to continue to have an Energy Performance Certificates or EPC for your property until further information is released.
What is an EPC Certificate?
Commonly known as an EPC, an Energy Performance Certificate is a document that rates the energy efficiency and environmental friendliness of a domestic or commercial property. This has been a legal requirement for property owners since August 2007 when it was first introduced by the EU. It is vital and necessary for anyone selling, renting or building property in the UK.
The ratings are stipulated in ‘bands’, scaling from ‘A’ (the most energy-efficient), to ‘G’ (the least energy efficient). These are calculated on numerous factors of the property, ranging from the insulation of the walls and lofts, to air conditioning and heating. The certificate will highlight a property’s environmental impact via CO2 emissions as well as suggesting methods of improvement to increase the energy efficiency of the property.
The property’s EPC rating is available to view from a public database but the landlord can opt-out of this. When it comes to putting your house up for sale, currently you are legally required to have an EPC.
How do you obtain an EPC Certificate?
EPCs are calculated and provided by qualified assessors and surveyors. These surveyors inspect the property based upon numerous factors, including some of the ones stipulated above. It is important to ensure that the assessors in question have the right qualifications and insurance to provide you with an EPC.
There are many qualified Energy Assessors available and many will be part of accreditation schemes recognised by the UK government. Make sure your solicitor looks at these for confirmation of the assessor’s credentials and to help you obtain your EPC certificate in the correct manner.
How much does an EPC cost?
Prices for EPCs in the UK vary between £35 to £120 including VAT. The price is calculated on multiple variables including the number of bedrooms and property type. Multiple price estimates can be found via our "Find a Professional" page and the decision on who to choose should be based upon the experience and knowledge of the Energy Assessors.
As rules and regulations look to change from 1st January 2021, there seems to be much uncertainty about the effects Brexit will have on housing legislation. This is why it is important to safeguard and prepare for any and all possibilities.
To get instant estimates for producing an EPC visit our "Find Professionals" page
