FAQs

How much does an EPC cost?

Please contact us for a quotation as this will depend on the size and type of the property and whether the property would be classed as Residential / Commercial

How long will the survey take?

An assessment on a 3 bedroom house would typically take 1 hour to complete.

Do you need to enter the property?

Yes to carry out the survey an assessor will need to gain access to the property to record information on the type of heating cooling systems installed as well as other factors including heating, insulation and number of habitable rooms and bathrooms.

Is my EPC portable?

Yes the EPC is lodged with Landmark and tied to the property so can be utilised by more than one estate agent.

What areas do you cover?

At the moment our assessors cover the following areas, but we are expanding all the time.

CB10, CB11, CM0, CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, CM7, CM8, CM9, CM11, CM12, CM13, CM14, CM15, CM16, CM17, CM19, CM20, CM21, CM22, CM23, CM24, DA1, DA2, DA3, DA4, DA5, DA6, DA8, DA9, DA10, DA11, DA12, DA13, DA14, DA15, DA16, DA17, E4, E7, E11, E12, E17, E18, EN1, EN2, EN3, EN4, EN5, EN6, EN7, E10, EN8, EN9, EN10, EN11, IG1, IG2, IG3, IG6, IG7, IG8, IG9, IG10, IG11, RM1, RM2, RM3, RM4, RM5, RM6, RM7, RM8, RM9, RM10, RM11, RM12, RM13, RM14, RM15, RM16, RM17, RM18, RM19, RM20, SG11, SG12, SG13, SS0, SS1, SS2, SS3, SS4, SS5, SS6, SS7, SS8, SS9, SS11, SS12, SS13, SS14, SS15, SS16 & SS17

Why have an EPC and are they necessary?

From 1 October 2008 it has been a legal requirement for all buildings whenever sold, rent or let to have one. They are necessary because buildings are responsible for almost 50% of the UK's energy consumption and carbon emissions. If the Government is to reach its target of reducing carbon emissions by 60 per cent by 2050 the energy efficiency of buildings needs to be improved. EPCs and DECs are therefore an important part tool in achieving the Government's overall carbon reduction targets. However, it will be critical to improve the quality of EPCs if they are to fulfil their potential.

It is unreasonable to reduce the period in which the EPC is expected to be obtained from 28 days to seven days?

Evidence shows that most EPCs are obtained within three days so this should not be a challenge in most cases. A further 21 days is allowed if after using all reasonable efforts the EPC cannot be obtained within seven days.

What happens after 28 days if the EPC is still unavailable?

If the building is still on the market after 28 days, Trading Standards Officers may choose to serve a penalty notice.

What is the penalty for a breach of the new regulations?

For residential buildings the penalty is £200. For non residential buildings the penalty is a sum equivalent to 12.5% of the rateable value of the building, subject to a minimum of £500 and a maximum of £5,000.

Who will be liable for the penalty charge?

If the relevant person or a person acting on their behalf has not obtained an EPC after the 28 day period they may be liable for a penalty charge.

What is the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive?

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive is a European Union Directive (EPBD) intended to tackle climate change by reducing the amount of carbon produced by buildings across the EU. There is now an overwhelming body of scientific evidence that indicates that climate change is a serious and urgent issue. While there are some remaining uncertainties about the eventual impacts, the evidence is now sufficient for the pressing need for action. The DCLG Page 14 of 14 23 March 2012 Climate Change Act 2008 commits the UK to making at least an 80% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Nearly half of all carbon emissions in the UK come from buildings. Article 7 of EPBD requires all buildings that constructed, sold or rented out to have an EPC. EPCs mean that for the first time consumers will know how energy efficient those buildings are, and how to make them perform better.

Does the EU Directive apply to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?

The EU Directive applies in all Member States although the implementation differs from region to region. The Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007 only apply in England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have both introduced their own separate regulations.

How does the EU Directive affect newly built homes?

For all homes that are physically completed on or after 6 April 2008 there is a requirement to provide an EPC to the owner, with evidence shown to building control.

Which buildings don't need an EPC?

The following buildings don't need an EPC when they are built, rented or sold: