What is an EPC certificate, how much does it cost and do I need one?
In the UK, the energy efficiency of buildings is rated on a scale from A to G and awarded an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate).
This can tell you more about the energy performance of a property, which is particularly useful ahead of putting in an offer on a new home as a guide to the property's average energy efficiency rating.
Guides & FAQs | Guides | Energy & Sustainability | What is an EPC certificate, how much does it cost and do I need one?
What to know when buying with Redrow
- When you buy a new home with Redrow your conveyancer will be provided with an EPC as standard.
- Redrow properties typically have an EPC rating of B, better than the average UK rating of D.
What is an EPC certificate?
An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is a certificate that provides information about the energy efficiency of a building. It is a legal requirement in the UK, for residential and commercial properties that are being sold, rented, or built.
The purpose of an EPC is to assess and rate the energy efficiency of a building, taking into account factors such as insulation, heating systems, ventilation, and the overall energy consumption of the property. The rating is given on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
The EPC certificate includes information about the property's current energy performance, as well as recommendations for improving its energy efficiency and lowering energy bills. Energy performance certificates help potential buyers make informed decisions by understanding the energy costs associated with the property and its impact on the environment.
An accredited energy assessor carries out the assessment and issues the EPC certificate, which is then valid for a specific period of time. It's important to note that obtaining an EPC is a legal requirement and failure to provide one when required can result in penalties or fines.
How much does an EPC certificate cost?
When you buy a new home with Redrow, your conveyancer will be provided with a valid EPC certificate before you compete on your home. Our new homes usually have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of B, better than the typical UK rating of D. According to the Home Builders Federation (HBF), "on average, new build houses are 66% more energy efficient, saving homeowners up to £183 a month in energy bills. That's a saving of £2,195 a year".
How to get a copy of my EPC certificate
EPC certificates need to be provided by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor. As part of the EPC assessment, the Assessor will perform health and safety checks around your home, and will also take measurements to see where energy could be lost (for example through windows and doors). The EPC survey includes inspections of any window glazing, insulation and heaters throughout the property.
When you purchase a new home with Redrow, your new house or apartment will have a new and valid EPC survey certificate and rating.
How long does it take to get an EPC certificate?
Once the survey and assessment are complete, the EPC document will be created and sent across to the property owner or estate agent within two days. This will contain the EPC rating from A to G and functions as an energy certificate for the property.
How long does an EPC certificate last?
Once a property has a valid EPC rating and certificate, this will last for ten years. If you're selling the house, you will need to make sure you can show the certificate to prospective buyers.
To the best of Redrow’s knowledge, everything in this guide is true at the time of writing. All descriptions, images and plans are illustrations, examples and/or approximations only and some processes listed may differ when buying a Redrow home, please speak with the sales team at your chosen development for more details. Redrow does not accept any liability or responsibility contractual or otherwise for any reliance on the information contained within the guide.