Energy Performance Certificates
New powers for Council to promote Energy Rating and possibly assist in the reduction of fuel poverty
From 3rd December 2009 Newtownabbey Borough Council in conjunction with the other 25 councils have been handed the power of enforcement of the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations from the Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP).
This legislation will assist home owners and potential householders to make an informed choice. Aside from climate what really affects the person on the street, and what will drive the energy performance of buildings legislation are fuel costs and how they can be reduced.
If selling or renting a property, or if you have recently built a new property, then it is your legal requirement to provide an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate). The aim of the EPC legislation is to improve energy efficiency of buildings and to reduce carbon emissions.
An EPC is an energy labelling system similar to that on white goods and can even be seen on aeroplanes. The EPC will give a scale rating from ‘A’, which is good, to a low ‘G’ rating. In ‘A’ rated properties you would expect fuel costs to be much lower due to the energy efficiency of the building.
(Image of an EPC rating similar to that found on domestic white goods, such as washing machines, cookers etc.)
Any prospective purchaser or tenant can ask to see the EPC free of charge. The EPC also provides recommendations for improvements and areas where fuel costs may be reduced. This will greatly assist those who are in the fuel poverty trap by giving them expert advice on how best to save energy loss from their home.
Estate agents often comment that many vendors query why they should bear the cost of having an EPC carried out: “Because the current sales and rental markets are so slow, it is very difficult to convince property owners that this is necessary before the property is sold!”
Despite it being a legal requirement, one of the benefits of having an EPC is that it may boost the potential value of your property! The EPC will be valid for 10 years. The cost of having an EPC carried out varies considerably. Shop around for competitive rates, and check out the Landmark Register for an accredited assessor on www.niepcregister.com.
Newtownabbey Borough Council is keen that EPC legislation is brought to light with a very positive message. Although it is a legal requirement to have an EPC, the benefits of having, what is in essence an energy audit of the property is a real a bonus. Not only will people have an energy label they are entailed to an accompanying report which indicates the measures they can take to improve their property.
In the coming months there will be a strong awareness campaign so that those buying, selling or renting property will now their rights and responsibilities. This will involve road shows in shopping centres and DIY stores, seminars for landlords and conveyance professionals, in addition to media promotion.
None of the Councils want to impose unnecessary fines on those with responsibilities under this legislation. However the potential exists for us to do just that should we experience resistance in compliance.
Related Documents to Download:
EPC Flyer (586Kb)
