An Energy Performance Certificate (known as an EPC) gives homeowners or potential buyers an idea of the energy efficiency and carbon footprint of their current or future home.
An EPC looks at elements such as the heating, insulation and lighting within your home, giving the property a rating between A (most efficient) and G (least efficient). New build homes usually score quite highly, but at the time of writing, the average ranking in the UK is D.
The assessor who completes the review will also give costed recommendations for changes that will boost your property’s EPC rating, ranging from small-scale improvements such as upgrading to LED lighting, to bigger jobs like installing solar photovoltaic panels.
OK, makes sense! But how does this affect me?
If you’re thinking about selling your home, an up-to-date EPC is now a legal requirement, and you must have one to show to any potential buyers before you put your home on the market. Assessments are valid for ten years, so if you’re planning to sell soon, now might be a good time to check yours!
You can find an energy certificate using the gov.uk search.
In years gone by, the energy efficiency rating of your dream property might have ranked further down your list of must-haves than a south-facing garden or off-road parking, but the ongoing energy crisis in the UK and an increased awareness of climate change is pushing homes’ carbon footprints further up the agenda.
An EPC should give buyers a good sense of how much it might cost to light and heat a home, and what systems have been installed. Using this information gives buyers the opportunity to compare similar properties and make informed decisions in relation to their home purchase, perhaps even as a basis to negotiate on price.
How can I improve my EPC rating?
If you’re keen to sell your home and your EPC rating is looking a bit unhealthy, never fear! There are lots of ways to cut your home’s carbon emissions and improve your green credentials, and sometimes just a few minor changes can help bump your property into the next band up. You may be aware of what needs to change already, but if you’re unsure, the Energy Saving Trust has some great advice on their website.
Even if you’re already living in your dream home (lucky you!), you might still want to make it that little bit greener. That’s where we can help! Our GoGreen further advance mortgage for existing borrowers can help you to make energy efficient home improvements such as triple glazing, an electric car charging port, or loft insulation. To find out more, give us a call or send us an email - we'll be happy to help.
YOUR MORTGAGE IS SECURED ON YOUR HOME. THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
