Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

From 21st May 2010 Home Information Packs are suspended pending primary legislation for a permanent abolition. This means that homes marketed for sale on or after this date will no longer require a Home Information Pack. However, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are still a legal requirement.

The seller or the sellers estate agent has a duty to have commissioned, but not necessarily received, the EPC before marketing of the property can start. The EPC has to be undertaken by an accredited Energy Assessor, who will compile a report which takes into consideration double glazing, cavity walls, loft insulation and such like in 'grading' the energy efficiency of the property giving an A to G rating according to the properties basic standard. These details can then be viewed by the potential purchaser.

An EPC is valid for a period of 10 years and EPCs that were carried out as part of a HIP can be used and relied upon when a property is sold within this time.

There is a fixed penalty of £200 for failing to provide an EPC which is enforced by Trading Standards Officers. There are also penalties for not complying with the duty to commission an EPC before putting the property on the market.

Through our associations with local accredited Energy Assessors we are able to assist you in ensuring that the EPC is carried out quickly, accurately, and affordably. If you would like more information on our EPC service then please contact your local office;-

**If you have commission a HIP prior to 21st May please contact your estate agent or one of our offices direct.

For more infomation please contact one of the following:

Name Position Office
Clare Trevelyan Thomas LLB Hons Partner Crediton
Stephen Govier TEP Senior Solicitor Budleigh Salterton
Wendy Sandford Licensed Conveyancer Crediton

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