Energy Performance Certs

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are the direct equivalent of the Building Energy Rating (BER) in the Republic of Ireland. They both derive from a common EU Directive. The certificates look similar in both jurisdictions. An EPC is a certificate containing information about the energy efficiency of a building. It must include the rating of the building or concern expressed on a scale of A to G.

A reference value being a benchmark against which the rating can be judged, e.g. reference to the average. Address of the building, an estimate of the total useful floor area. Name of the energy assessor. Date of issue. Date and name of the accreditation scheme of which the assessor is a member.

An EPC is required when a property is sold, let, newly constructed. It is also required where it is converted, and basic services including heating, hot air, or air conditioning are modified.

The EPC must be given free of charge to the prospective purchaser or tenant at the earliest opportunity but no later than when written information concerning the building has been provided in response to a request from a buyer or tenant or where the property is viewed or in any event prior to the contract of sale or lease.

An EPC is required in respect of any roofed construction having walls for which energy is used to condition the indoor climate. This includes buildings that have fixed heating, mechanical ventilation, or air-conditioning. Buildings that only have hot water or electric lighting do not require an EPC.

An EPC must be accompanied by a recommendation report, which contains suggestions on the improvement of the energy efficiency of the building. It is to be issued by the energy assessor who issues the EPC. The EPC is valid for 10 years.