Energy Performance Certificates

Improving the energy performance of your home:

An Energy Performance Certificate provides a rating for your home showing its overall energy efficiency. The higher the rating, the more energy efficient your home is, and importantly, the lower your fuel bills are likely to be

Did you know: buildings produce nearly half of the UK's carbon emissions?

Shockingly, that's almost twice that of cars and planes. The way a building is constructed, insulated, heated and ventilated all contribute to its carbon emissions.

What is the purpose of an Energy Performance Certificate?

Energy Performance Certificates have been introduced by the Government to help improve the energy efficiency of all buildings, including your home. If you are buying, renting out or selling your home you now need a certificate by law. All newly built properties must also have an Energy Performance Certificate.

What does an Energy Performance Certificate look like?

You can follow this link to the Governments Communities and Local Government web site to see a sample Energy Performance Certificate.

What are the ratings and what do they mean?

The certificate provides 'A' to 'G' ratings for your home, with 'A' being the most energy efficient and 'G' being the least. Each rating is based on the performance of the building itself and its services (such as heating and lighting), and not the domestic appliances within it. This is known as an 'asset rating'. The ratings your home receive will vary according to the age, location, size and condition of your home.

Will the Energy Performance Certificate help me to improve the energy efficiency of my home?

Yes. Your certificate should include a report which lists the potential energy efficiency rating of your home and recommends ways in which these improved ratings can be achieved. The report may include:

• Suggested improvements (such as fitting loft insulation)
• The approximate cost of making the changes
• Possible savings per year if the improvements are made

You can use this information to:

• Cut your fuel bills 
• Improve energy performance in your home 
• Help cut carbon emissions
• Help you choose a more energy efficient home to rent or buy

Do I have to act on the recommendations outlined in the report?

No. You do not have to act on the recommendations contained in the report. However, if you decide to do so, then it could make your property more attractive for sale or rent and by making it more energy efficient, you'll be doing your bit for the environment and saving yourself some pennies!