As of December 2007 all homeowners in England and Wales will require a Home Information Pack when selling their property. A key part of the Home Information Pack (HIP) is the Energy Performance Certificate along with other information including a sale statement, standard searches and evidence of title. The Energy Performance Certificate will be a new concept to many but is considered to be an important way for buyers to assess their purchase. (Note that properties to be let must also have an EPC from 1st October 2008).
The Energy Performance Certificate contains details of a property’s energy efficiency and uses a scale from A to G for this and the impact of the property on the environment through carbon emissions. This is similar to the EU Energy Label seen on household appliances. The areas assessed include the insulation within the property, whether double glazing has been fitted, whether energy saving light bulbs are used and the type of heating system. The Energy Performance Certificate then gives the ratings and offers advice on improving energy efficiency within the property. The average property in the UK currently rates between D and E for energy efficiency and environmental impact, with A being the highest rating.
More information on the Energy Performance Certificate can be found on the Home Information Pack website and a sample copy of the certificate can be downloaded from the publications page www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk
If you wish to commission a Home Information Pack for your home, speak to your estate agent or visit one of the following websites.
Association of Home Information Pack Providers
National Association of Registered Home Inspectors
Commercial buildings will also require an Energy Performance Certificate. This is being phased in dependent on building size from April 2008. For details of the timetable visit the Communities & Local Government website.
