Energy Performance Certificates Northern Ireland

 

FAQ's

What is an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate tells you how energy efficient you're home is on a scale of A-G.  The most efficient homes will have a rating at the upper end of that scale and will therefore be more energy efficient. 

The certificate also advises on the impact your home has on the environment, and what improvements you could make to improve the rating of your property.

 

Do I need an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate is now required in Northern Ireland for all residential resale properties on the market. For all listings an EPC is required when the property is placed on the market so that the EPC rating and accompanying Recommendation Report can be made available to any potential purchaser for inspection. Also, any property currently 'agreed for sale' where the contract was not signed by both purchaser and seller before 1st July 2008 must have an EPC. An EPC is a vital document in the sale process as a sale can not be completed without one. The Department of Finance and Personnel has furthermore advised if homeowners do not adhere to the legislation they run the risk of facing £200 fines.

EPCs will be required for New Build Homes at the end of September 2008.  All commercial buildings marketed for sale or rent and residential rentals will be affected from the end of December 2008.

Some property owners may also obtain an EPC simply to see where energy efficiencies could be made - even if they are not selling or renting out their homes. This would assist in reducing energy waste, reduce costs and improve the energy rating for the future should the property then be sold or rented. A higher energy rating may also enhance the value of the property as energy costs continue to rise and therefore become an important selling factor.

 

When will I need an Energy Performance Certificate?

EPCNI Government Timetable:

               

End of June 2008 Residential Sales 
End of September 2008 All newly constructed buildings 
End of December 2008 All commercial buildings marketed for sale or rent and residential rentals 

 

How do I order an EPC?

  • Simply select Order My Assessment and enter details about your property
  • Enter property details, including the house number, postcode and the number of bedrooms.
  • Enter your contact details
  • Choose the assessment date and time you would like an Energy Assessor to go to your home.
  • Enter your payment details
  • Confirm order and check date and time are ok.

 

How long does the survey take?

The average 3 bedroom home should take 1 hour.  However speed is not the priority as it is accuracy which is important to ensure accurate results. The assessor will need access to the entire house including the roof space and will take measurements and photographs to support the survey.

 

How long does it take to get the EPC?

Using our On-Line Booking system, you will be able to select an appointment day and time that suits you. We will then send an assessor to your home to carry out an inspection.  It will then take another 48 hours to receive your certificate.

 

How do I get my copy of the EPC and what is an EPCNI reference number?

We will arrange to deliver your EPC by email and send a copy to your estate agent and solicitor if you wish.  You will also be provided with a unique EPCNI reference number which will be reproduced on the property details printed by your estate agent and will refer to the complete certificate which can then be viewed online or printed by a potential purchaser by quoting that number on http://www.epcni.com. The full certificate will also be accessible from the familiar ‘rainbow graph' when it is viewed on-line on your agents web site, on http://www.epcni.com or on http://www.propertynews.com - this will be a user and energy friendly alternative to printing many copies of the certificate for general circulation.

 

What details are on the EPC?

1) Property address

2) Unique EPC number

3) Current & potential energy efficiency rating

4) Assessment of typical current & potential energy costs (not actual costs)

 

Do I need to make improvements?

The certificate contains details and recommendations on ways to improve your home's energy efficiency to save you money and help the environment.  There is no legal requirement to make the improvements, but the recommendations are designed to highlight the cost benefit and payback periods in addition to reducing your home's impact on the environment.

 

Can others see my EPC?

People who are interested in your home, can request to see the EPC for the property to find out what the rating is and if they would like to make improvements.

Viewers can request the EPC from your Estate Agent, or can simply click on the EPC on the Propertynews.com brochure page, Agent's web site or www.epcni.com to view the certificate.

 

Why should I use EPCNI?

  • A professional network of 'Gold Standard' accredited Energy Assessors.
  • EPCNI Energy Performance Certificates are delivered electronically (unless specified otherwise) for efficiency and in the interest of energy conservation.
  • EPCNI Energy Performance Certificates are fully integrated into Propertynews.com agents' websites and EDGE, the premier back off system for Estate Agents.
  • EPCNI Energy Performance Certificates and the full report can be instantly accessed online by clicking the rainbow graph.
  • EPCNI is an Independent News & Media Plc Company and a sister company to Propertynews.com

How much does an EPC cost?

The cost of the EPC depends on the number of bedrooms.

1 Bedroom £99 
2-3 Bedrooms£120 
4 Bedroom £150 
5 - 6 Bedroom £175 

All costs are subject to vat at the prevailing rate.