Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an EPC or Home Energy Report?
An EPC is required if you are selling or renting the property. If you are looking to find ways to improve the energy efficiency and running costs of your property, then a Home Energy Report is what you will need.
What will the Home Energy Report tell me ?
The report will detail any areas within your property that should be looked at to improve the energy efficiency and running costs of your property. We aim to locate areas of poor insulation, drafts, air leaks and advise on improvements to heating and controls. If your house ins’t well insulated and protected from unwanted cold air entering through poorly fitted doors or windows, then any other changes you make such as fitting solar panels won’t be as effective as they could be.
The idea of the report is to focus your attention on the areas that require the most attention to deliver the best energy savings
Do you drill holes in walls or ceilings ?
No, the survey is non-invasive. If you would like to lift floor boards in the loft areas for us to asses more thoroughly then this must be done by yourself prior to our visit. Our assessors will not be able to remove boards or drill holes in exterior walls.
Will I be able to save money on my energy bills ?
Homes in England are the most poorly insulated in the whole of Europe. Did you know that you could be losing as much as 35% of your heat through the roof, and up to 25% through the walls? Doors and windows contribute to another 25% of potential heat loss. It’s very much like driving in your car in winter with the heater on and a window open.
Our report will direct your attention to areas of the property where changes could be made to improve insulation and air leakage. This in turn will mean less heat escaping from your property and less energy being used to keep it warm
I’m renting my property out privately, do I need an EPC ?
Yes you do.
All properties rented and sold in the UK must have a valid EPC. These are filed on the national register and available for anyone to look at. Properties with higher ratings will be more favourable to renters and could command a higher rent.
Do mortgage companies favour higher rated EPCs ?
Yes, most of the major lenders are rewarding home owners with EPC ratings of A or B. Sometimes by as much as 1% on the mortgage rate for the best performing properties. Equally some lenders aren’t lending on the poorest performing houses, especially where there is scope to improve them.
Is an EPC part of the Home Energy Report ?
We use the methodology of the EPC process to create an Energy Report. The only difference between the two is that an EPC once created is lodged on the national register, whereas an Energy Report is not. They both contain the same information.