Energy Performance Certificates for County Durham, Tyne and Wear and Northumberland
Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find a list of the most frequently asked questions about Energy Performance Certificates. If you still have any unanswered questions then why not...
Q) What happens if my home gets a bad rating?
A)A bad rating simply indicates that there is room for improvement energy efficiency wise. Along with the rating, the EPC contains a list of possible improvements that could raise the rating of the home, save the owner money and help the environment. These recommendations are by no means mandatory, it is up to the owner whether they are implemented or not.
Q) How long will it take to get my Energy Performance Certificate?
A) Our Domestic Energy Assessor should usually be on site for approximately one hour. The calculations are completed at our offices from the measurements and observations made on site and your EPC should be produced within 24 hours of the visit.
Q) My home has less than three bedrooms, do I still need an Energy Performance Certificate?
A) For the immediate future no. The introduction of EPC into the property market process is being phased to help smooth the introduction so for now, only homes with three or more bedrooms require an EPC to go to market.
Q) Do I need an Energy Performance Certificate before I market my property?
A) The EPC is a mandatory part of the Home Information Pack that must be attached to the property details supplied by the Estate Agent so an EPC is required prior to marketing the property.
Q) Who can produce an Energy Performance Certificate?.
A) An EPC can only be completed by a fully qualified and accredited Domestic Energy Assessors or Home Inspector.
Q) Do I need to be present during the assessor’s visit?
A) Our Assessor will need access to all areas of your home, including the loft area and also examine your main heating boiler. Also a few questions may need to be asked to speed along the survey. It would be preferable if the home owner could be present but arrangements can be made to collect the keys from an authorised third party if this is inconvenient.