In the past year, searches on Google for ‘what is the cost of an EPC rating’ have increased by 23% [1]. This follows the UK Government’s announcement that by 2030, all property owners must achieve an EPC rating of C or higher if they wish to rent or sell their property, or they could face fines of up to £5,000 [2].

Health and safety experts, Direct365 have identified the importance of having an EPC reviewed and ways in which owners can increase their score, making a home or business more energy efficient.

31% of homes across England have never had an EPC

When it comes to holding a valid EPC, only 69% of all homes in England have at least one registration of an EPC since they were first introduced in 2007 [3]. By not holding an EPC,  the property owners not only risk being fined, but will also be unaware of the steps they can take to ensure their property is as energy efficient as possible, saving money in the long run. 

Property age

% with an EPC

Pre 1930

59.76

1930 -1982

67.76

1983 – 2011

74.17

2012 – 2024

93.27

Source: ONS data collected 31st March 2024

Older houses are less likely to hold an EPC, especially if they have not been sold or rented out since the certificate was introduced in 2007. For example, just under 60% of homes built before 1930 have registered for an EPC, making the owner liable to a fine if they come to sell or let the property out. 

On the contrary, homes built after 2012 all require an EPC when they are built. Over 6% of newbuilds in the UK do not have an EPC registered to the property. Therefore, it is worth all property owners checking their EPC rating and its validity. 

While it is not a legal requirement for properties to have an up to date EPC, when the owner comes to sell or rent out their property, it becomes a requirement. 

Health & Safety experts at Direct365 advise people to look into upgrading certain aspects of their home or business premises to help improve their energy efficiency, including: 

  1. Using energy efficient light bulbs
  2. Adding an insulated jacket to boiler
  3. Replacing an older boiler to a condensing or combi boiler
  4. Upgrading windows to double or triple glazing
  5. Upgrading insulation in loft space

Karl Bantleman at Direct365 commented, “EPC ratings are crucial in identifying improvements that can be made within a property to improve energy efficiency. While the energy performance within a property is subjective to a range of different factors, there are ways in which owners can take simple actions such as switching out old light bulbs to improve the EPC rating. 

While other options include improving installation or upgrading a boiler which is more of an investment, it is worth looking into whether there is any support available through a Government grant. Likewise, while making improvements to your home or business can cost money upfront, it will not only save you money in the long-term but also bring up the value of your property, whether you are looking to sell or rent it out.”

Head to Direct365 to find more information about the Energy Performance Certificate Assessment that they offer. 

www.direct365.co.uk   

Sources

[1] keywordtool.ao

[2] Fines in place for owners of a property without an EPC 

[3] Number of homes in England with an EPC