WILL YOU HAVE TO DISPLAY AN EPC?
No, only buildings occupied by a public authority or institution will be required to display energy certificates.
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
It’s similar to the colour coding on the side of fridges and freezers, and displays seven coloured bandings from A (green), which is the best rating, through to G (red), which is the lowest rating.
HOW CAN A BUILDING’S RATING BE IMPROVED?
The EPC report will contain a list of measures that can be undertaken to improve a building’s EPC rating.
Improvements to service controls and increasing insulation are generally the most effective ways of improving the rating. However, each building will be considered on an individual basis.
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
Owners or landlords will have to bear the cost of obtaining an EPC and the price will be driven by the market. However, the Government expects costs to vary from about £1,500 up to £5,000 depending on the size and complexity of the premises.
Many will view these regulations as yet more red tape but there’s no escaping the need to comply as the legislation allows for fines up to £5,000.
WHAT IMPACT COULD AN EPC HAVE ON ME?
The effect on capital values is difficult to judge as yet, however potential purchasers, when comparing properties, might be more tempted to pursue a property with a better energy rating assessment, as they may believe it will have lower running costs. They may also use a lower assessment as grounds for reducing their offer.
However, a property’s location, trading history and potential are still likely to be the dominating factors purchasers consider when assessing a business.PHOTO (COLOR): For an EPC Certificate, a full set of floor plans for the property will be needed, plus details of all services, such as boiler and air conditioning type and output