Energy Performance Certificates Northern Ireland
The government introduced Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Northern Ireland on the 30th of June 2008. This legislation applies to all existing dwellings which are on the market for sale, irrespective of how long they have been on the market. The Legislation will also apply to tenanted properties from the 1st January 2009.
The Energy Performance Certificate gives landlords, tenants, homeowners and buyers information on the energy efficiency of their property. It gives the building a standard energy and carbon emission efficiency grade from 0 to 100, or from “A” to “G”, where ‘A’ is the most efficient and with the average in Northern Ireland being about 50%, “E”. Example of energy efficiency rating graph for homes...
EPCs are measured using the same calculations for all homes, so you can compare the energy efficiency of different properties. Part of the EPC is a report which will list the potential rating that your home could achieve, if you made the recommended changes. The report lists:
- Suggested improvements (such as improving heating control systems)
- The approximate cost of carrying such works
- Possible cost savings per year if the improvements are made
- How this would change the energy and carbon emission rating of the property
Please note that landlords or homeowners are not required to complete any recommended works prior to letting or selling the property. Any recommendations provided are only for information purposes.
However as landlord can implement these recommendations to:
- Reduce your energy/fuel bills
- Improve energy performance in the house
- Help cut carbon emissions
As a tenant or a buyer the EPC can help you choose a more energy efficient home to rent or buy.
In addition to providing Energy Performance Certificates to all our clients we offer a complete list of services in relation to the EPCs to ensure that our clients enjoy peace of mind.
- We liaise between your tenants and the Energy Assessor to agree a suitable time for the survey.
- We can provide unlimited print copies of the survey on request to all potential tenants and/or viewers.
- We can upload the EPC on our website on request together with other property particulars.
- As the EPC regulation in Northern Ireland is policed by the Department of Finance and Personnel (DPFNI) we take all the calls from the DFPNI on your behalf and reassure them that you meet your legal obligation.
| You do not have to act on the recommendations contained in the recommendation report. However, if you decide to do so, then it could make your property more attractive for sale or rent by making it more energy efficient. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs an EPC?
The EPC is required by law when a building is constructed, sold or put up for rent.
Do I need an EPC as Sellers/Buyers of a home?
All sellers of homes need to ensure that they provide an EPC for potential buyers. An EPC must be made available to a potential homebuyer.
Do I need an EPC as a Builder of a New Home?
Yes, An EPC needs to be provided to buyers of newly built properties.
As a Landlord do I need to provide a EPC to my tenants?
If you are a landlord, you’ll need to make an EPC available to prospective tenants after the 1st of January 2008. An EPC is only required for a property which is self-contained. The EPC is valid for 10 years and can be used for multiple tenancies over that period.
An EPC isn’t required when a tenant rents a room and shares facilities.
As a Tenant should I receive an EPC and when?
If you are interested in renting a property then an EPC must be made available to you before you sign a contract. An EPC is only required for a property which is self-contained, and is valid for 10 years. If you are a prospective tenant, an EPC isn’t required when you rent a room and share facilities.
What if I am not in one of the above categories and still want an EPC?
Even if you do not fall into the above categories, you can still apply for and receive an EPC. Please contact Propertylets NI for further information.
Will EPCs be needed across the Northern Ireland?
Yes, the regulation applies to all properties that fall in the above mentioned categories across the region.
How can you get your EPC?
EPCs can only be produced as a result of a survey by an Accredited Domestic Energy Assessor. EPCs are used to collect standard information on the property – for example, its size and hot water and heating systems. The information is then fed into a government-approved software programme which produces the EPC.
How can I get my EPC at a reasonable price?
Propertylets NI work together with local Accredited Domestic Energy Assessors and have agreed special rates for all our clients. Please contact us for free Information.
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