Frequently Asked Questions
A. Simply call us on 0151 324 4050 or 0753 198 0210. Alternatively you can visit our contact page.
hideA. Once your property has been surveyed and the EPC lodged we will email you your report as a PDF document. We will also supply you with a unique reference number to access an online database.
hideQ.What does a commercial EPC look like?
A. It is similar to the domestic EPC certificate and appliance's such as washing machines and refrigerators. Here is an example of a commercial EPC certificate.
hideQ.Do all properties require an EPC?
A. No, the following types of buildings do not require an EPC:
- Places of worship
- Stand alone non-dwellings which are less than 50m²
- Temporary buildings of less than 2 years
- Industrial premises with low energy use, where mostly it is unheated or cooled
- Buildings to be demolished within 2 years
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Q.How long are EPC's valid for?
A. An EPC for a non-dwelling will be valid for 10 years or until replaced with a newer one.
hideA. The price of EPC's will be set by the market and market demand. It is likely in practice that the cost will vary according to a number of factors including size, location and age of building. For a free no obligation quote please contact us.
hideQ.Do I need a new EPC every time I let my building?
A. As long as a valid EPC exists for the building, you can provide this to prospective tenants. An EPC is valid for 10 years and during this period you can provide the same EPC to prospective tenants. This EPC will no longer be valid if a newer EPC has been registered.
hideQ.Do I need a new EPC every time I sell a building?
A. As long as a valid EPC exists for the building, you can provide this to prospective buyers. An EPC is valid for 10 years and during this period you can provide the same EPC to prospective buyers. This EPC will no longer be valid if a newer EPC has been registered.
hideQ.Can a prospective tenant or buyer waive their right to receive an EPC?
A. The relevant person has a duty to make available an EPC to a prospective buyer or tenant and will be liable to a penalty charge if he fails to do so, irrespective of whether the prospective buyer or tenant purports to waive an entitlement to receive the certificate.
hideQ.What software can be used to produce EPC's?
A. Only software approved by communities and local government can be used to produce EPC's.
hideQ.How can I check if you are properly qualified?
A. The accreditation bodies ensure their members are properly qualified and competent to conduct assessments. If you wish to check the accreditation details of us, you can contact the Building Research Establishment (BRE) directly or visit NDEPC Register which shows properly qualified and accredited energy assessors. Simon Fry is our principle energy assessor. He is accredited with BRE. Please don't hesitate to contact us for an accreditation number, we will be more than happy to help.
hideQ.Do I have to act on the recommendations?
A. No, you are under no obligation to act on the recommendations for energy improvements to the buliding. However, taking action on the recommendations is likely to improve the energy efficiency of your building, reduce your fuel bills, cut it's carbon emissions and could make it more attractive to potential buyers or tenants in the future.
hideQ.What if a building is required urgently for rental and there is no time to commission an inspection?
A. This is permissible under the regulations if there is an emergency requiring a tenant's urgent relocation. An EPC should be provided as soon as reasonably practicable after renting out the building.
hideQ.I'm selling a building for demolition, do I need an EPC?
A. If you can demonstrate the building is suitable for demolition and the resulting site is suitable for redevelopment and you believe on reasonable grounds that the prospective buyer or tenant intends to demolish the building, you do not need to provide an EPC. Generally this can be demonstrated by having the relevant planning permission or evidence that planning permission has been applied for.
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