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Energy Performance Certificates
(EPC) Winchester, Hampshire

Domestic Energy Assessor Hampshire.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does an EPC assessment take?
A: Typically around 45 minutes for a 3 bed semi. Complex properties with more bedrooms and extensions will take longer.

Q: What is the assessment procedure?
A: Dimensions of the property will be taken to ascertain the floor area and ceiling heights. Access to all rooms to obtain details on heating, radiators, glazing and lighting. The loft area is checked for insulation and details taken of the main and secondary heating systems along with any water cylinder installed. Photographs will need to be taken to support the site notes but are not released with the EPC.

Q: How long is the EPC valid for?
A: The EPC is now valid for 10 years from the date of issue. This is for both resale and rental properties.

Q: Can Property Assess offer advice on how to improve my home's energy efficiency?
A: Yes we can. We can look around your property without doing an EPC and then send you a written report on the areas of your property that could / should be improved to cut down your energy bills. There will be a fee for this service.

Q: Will my current spending on energy bills be taken into account?
A: No. The estimated energy bill calculations on the EPC are based on standardised living conditions and not the individual owner’s lifestyle.

Q: Will I invalidate the EPC if I carry out changes to my property?
A: No. You may point out to perspective purchasers that you have made the changes and therefore increased the energy efficiency rating. You may consider getting a revised EPC to fully represent the new energy levels. This will require a re-visit and further assessment cost.

Q: Will you need to lift floorboards or loft boards?
A: No. The assessment is based on visual inspection only. Access is needed to all rooms and the attic and cellar as well as the boiler, heating controls, hot water storage and gas / electricity meters.

Q: My loft insulation is hidden under boards?
A: Every effort is made to identify where insulation is included including cavities and loft area. Where no access is possible it will be necessary for the property owner to provide evidence of insulation. If this is not possible, we will include a default in the software where no access is possible and that will result in a lower insulation rating.

Q: I rent rooms in my property by the week / month / B&B. Do I need an EPC?
A: No you don't. If you rent out rooms in your home to lodgers, rent out individual rooms in a property, Ie, houses of multiple occupancy (HMO) / student lets, B&B or rent out your property for holiday lets under current guidelines, you do not need to have an Energy Performance Certificate.

Q: I want to check the energy rating of my house but I am not looking to sell just yet?
A: This is a great idea and if you decide to move within 3 years the EPC will still be valid. If you are not moving, you will definitely benefit from finding out how good your home is at generating and retaining the energy used and what improvements could be made to reduce your energy bills.

Q: Will I own my EPC?
A: If you purchase your EPC direct from us then yes you will and this will need passing onto your selling or letting agent and / or solicitor for the sale of your home. If you order the EPC through an estate agent or your solicitor then you will need to check with them as to the ownership.

Q: Will estate agents and solicitors accept EPC’s produced by others?
A: Yes, although some may charge a nominal fee to check it’s legality.

Q: How can I check if an Energy Assessor is accredited?
A: You can check at the DEA register and type in the accreditation number or the name details. Additionally, all accredited DEA’s are checked with the criminals register bureau.

Q: Can a house fail an EPC?
A: No. A professional EPC is an examination of the current energy efficiency and the effect on the environment. So the results of the assessment is based on the current levels of insulation and heating system.

Q: Will I need to be present during the inspection?
A: It is not a legal requirement to be present, however, it is highly recommended that you are. In addition to security and health & safety issues, the inspector may ask you for some information relating to your property. If you are unable to be present, then a responsible adult or the selling agent may be present, but not any persons under the age of 16.

Q: My home is Leasehold. Do I still need an EPC?
A: Yes, unless the lease has less than 21 years to run.

Q: I am going to rent out my residential property. Do I still need an EPC?
A: Yes you do and the certificate will be valid for 10 years for rental properties.

Q: When do I pay for my EPC?
A: The EPC will need to be paid in full either before the inspection or on the day of inspection.

Q: My home is grade 1 or 2 listed and/or thatched. Do I still need and EPC or HIP?
A: Yes you do.

Q: What happens if I don’t get an EPC?
A: The initial fine is £200 but if your property remains on the market for sale, then further fines will be incurred. This may increase to £500.

Q: Are there any grants available to make energy saving improvements to my home?
A: There may well be financial help available depending on your circumstances. For further advice contact your local council or Eaga Partnership on 0800 316 6011 or visit their website at http://www.eaga.com/ or from the Dept of Energy & Climate Change.