EPC’s - Scotland
There is a requirement to provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to any prospective buyer or tenant of a property when it is either sold or rented out.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is similar to the certificates now provided with domestic appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines.It is a document which states the energy efficiency of a building based on the standardised way the building is used and provides the building owner with a number of ways in which the efficiency could be improved.
Two ratings are shown. The environmental impact rating is a measure of a home's impact on the environment in terms of carbon dioxide (C02) emissions - the higher the rating, the less impact it has on the environment. The energy-efficiency rating is a measure of a home's overall efficiency. The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the home is, and the lower the fuel bills are likely to be.
Each EPC rating is based on the performance of the building itself and its services (such as heating and lighting), rather than the domestic appliances within it. This is known as an asset rating. The certificate also lists the potential rating of the building if all the cost-effective measures were installed.
Will this apply to all properties?
This requirement applies to all property types both dwellings and non-dwellings which are on the market at January 4, 2009. Dwellings which are being sold and subject to a 'Home Report' from December 1, 2008, will have an EPC provided as part of the document package, and there will be no need to take further action.
Who can provide an EPC?
In Scotland, an Accredited Domestic Energy Assessor may provide EPCs for existing buildings. EPCs produced by individuals not included on the SBS approved Certification list are invalid and could result in the building owner being prosecuted for non compliance.
From January 4, 2009, all EU member states have an obligation under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) to promote improvement in the energy performance of new and existing buildings.
