Energy Performance Certificates - EPC

EPCs are categorised by property type and purpose. A rating of A to G is given, with A being the most energy efficient and G the least. The report also shows the property’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

Domestic EPC

Single-family homes rented or sold are required to obtain a domestic EPC, regardless of the property’s size. Exceptions to this rule include some listed structures, temporary structures that will not be used for more than two years, and holiday rentals let out for less than four months in a year.

Commercial EPC

These are required for selling, letting, or constructing commercial buildings. It outlines the energy efficiency of the property to prospective buyers or tenants. However, you do not need an EPC if you could prove the building falls under any of the following:

• Listed as a heritage site
• Intended to be used for less than two years
• Used as a place of worship or a religious setting
• An industrial site, non-residential agricultural building or workshop that doesn’t consume much energy
• A detached building with a floor space not exceeding 50 square metres
• Scheduled for demolition by the landlord or seller with all essential planning and conversation consents obtained

SAP EPC

A Standard Assessment Procedure or SAP measures a property\’s energy efficiency and CO2 emissions. It is applicable for newly constructed, converted and extended residential properties.

Unlike domestic and commercial EPCs, SAPs do not require an on-site visit. You simply need to provide documents like your architect\’s blueprints and construction specification details.