In today’s energy-conscious world, understanding and improving your property’s energy efficiency is more important than ever. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a vital tool for property owners, landlords, and businesses to assess and enhance their energy performance. At ARC Facilities, we specialize in providing comprehensive EPC surveys, helping our clients save money, comply with regulations, and contribute to a sustainable future.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An EPC is a document that provides a detailed assessment of a property’s energy efficiency. It includes:
Energy Efficiency Rating: A grade from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
Carbon Emissions: The property’s environmental impact.
Recommendations: Practical suggestions to improve energy efficiency, such as upgrading insulation or installing energy-efficient systems.
EPCs are legally required when:
Selling or renting a property.
Constructing a new building.
Why are EPCs Important?
Legal Compliance
EPCs are a legal requirement for property transactions in the UK. Landlords and sellers must provide a valid EPC to potential tenants or buyers.
What happens if you don’t comply? Non-compliance can result in fines of up to £5,000, depending on the property type.
Energy Cost Savings
An EPC highlights areas where energy efficiency can be improved, such as:
Upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems like MVHR, FCUs, or AHUs.
Improving insulation to reduce heat loss.
Installing energy-efficient lighting.
The result? Lower utility bills and long-term savings.
Environmental Responsibility
By improving your property’s energy efficiency, you reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a greener planet. This aligns with government energy policies and sustainability goals.
Enhanced Property Value
Energy-efficient properties are more attractive to buyers and tenants. A higher EPC rating can increase your property’s market value and rental potential.
New EPC Rules: What Homeowners Need to Know
The government has recently updated the way Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are calculated using a new system called RdSAP 10. This means your home’s EPC rating may change, especially if you have electric heating, solar panels, or heat pumps, as electricity is now counted as cleaner energy.
Assessors will now collect more detailed information when visiting your home, including details about windows, insulation, and heating systems. This helps give a more accurate picture of your home’s energy efficiency.
What you need to do
If you are planning to sell or rent your home, you will need a new EPC under these updated rules.
Allow your assessor to access all parts of your home, including lofts, heating systems, and insulation, to gather detailed information.
Use your updated EPC to identify practical ways to improve energy efficiency and lower your bills, such as adding insulation or considering heat pumps.
These changes aim to help homeowners understand their energy use better and support greener, warmer homes.
How ARC Facilities Can Help
At ARC Facilities, we provide end-to-end support for EPCs, including:
EPC Surveys: Comprehensive assessments to determine your property’s energy efficiency rating.
Energy Audits: In-depth evaluations to identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.
Retrofit Coordination: Assistance in implementing energy-saving measures to improve your EPC rating.
Our Expertise:
Certified Domestic Energy Assessors (DEA).
Experience in both domestic and commercial properties.
Tailored advice to meet your property’s unique needs.
Case Study: Improving EPC Ratings for a Commercial Client
A landlord in Kent approached ARC Facilities to improve the energy efficiency of their rental property. After conducting an EPC survey, we identified the following upgrades:
Installation of an MVHR system to recover heat and reduce energy consumption.
Replacement of outdated lighting with energy-efficient LED bulbs.
Improved insulation in walls and windows.
The result? The property’s EPC rating improved from a D to a B, making it more attractive to tenants and reducing energy costs by 20%.
Tips for Improving Your EPC Rating
Upgrade HVAC Systems: Invest in energy-efficient systems like MVHR, FCUs, and AHUs.
Improve Insulation: Ensure walls, roofs, and windows are properly insulated.
Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace old appliances with modern, energy-saving models.
Conduct Regular Maintenance: Keep systems like HVAC and plumbing in top condition to avoid energy waste.
Why Choose ARC Facilities for Your EPC Needs?
Certified Professionals: Our team is fully accredited and experienced in conducting EPC surveys.
Tailored Solutions: We provide customized recommendations to suit your property’s specific requirements.
Sustainability Focus: We help you achieve compliance while contributing to environmental goals.
Affordable Services: Our EPC surveys are competitively priced from £60, offering excellent value for money.
Energy Performance Certificates are more than just a legal requirement—they’re a roadmap to a more energy-efficient and cost-effective property. At ARC Facilities, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from conducting EPC surveys to implementing energy-saving solutions.
Contact us today to book your EPC survey and take the first step toward a greener, more efficient property.