Energy Performance of Buildings

The Energy Performance Certificate is a mandatory component of the Home Information Pack (HIP) and provides details on the energy performance of the property and what you can do to improve it.

 

 

From 14 December 2007 all properties offered for sale in England and Wales need a Home Information Pack.

 

The pack must include:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Home Information Pack website has an example of a completed HIP.

 

The EPC is in line with the requirements of the 2002 European Union Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings. In order to assess the energy performance of the building the Home Inspector will collect the appropriate data required and either submit it to one of the Government approved energy rating software organisations or use the licensed software to deliver the energy efficiency rating for the property.

 

The EPC will rate homes from A to G, depending on how well they generate and conserve heat, in a system similar to that used on white goods. A certificate will be issued showing where your house sits on the A - G rating.

 

The software will produce recommendations on how energy efficiency can be improved, but the Home Inspector will have the opportunity to remove any inappropriate recommendation before the report is signed off.

 

In most cases, from October 1st 2008, Landlords will need to provide an EPC to tenants.

You can get your estate agent or solicitor to compile your Home Information Pack or you can do it yourself for a fraction of the cost.

 

Most of the information you require is easily accessible. The most difficult part is getting an Energy Performance Certificate. You must first find an assessor.

 

Blaby District Council also have a very good document called HIP - How to do it yourself.

 

 

For more information on the Home Information Packs visit the Home Information Packs website. To see further examples of HIPs and other related documents, see the key publications relating to Home Information packs.

 

If you would like any further information please see the Contact us section for our telephone numbers and email address.