Energy Performance Certificates
Anyone who is selling, renting out or constructing a building needs an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for that property.
An EPC tells you how energy efficient your property is and includes recommendations for improving its energy rating.
The energy rating is based on factors such as:
- Type of construction
- Thermal insulation
- Heating system
- Lighting
- Building Orientation
It's required even if there is no heating system or services at the moment, such as in commercial retail shell units or incomplete dwellings.
Certificates remain valid for 10 years but should be renewed if you carry out any major refurbishment or building work which could change the energy efficiency rating of your property.
We enforce the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations (NI) and can investigate if an EPC is not shown to a prospective tenant or buyer. Offenders can be fined up to £200 (dwellings) and £500 - £5,000 (any other property). And, we can issue fines more than once.
Who needs an EPC?
Anyone who is selling, renting out or constructing a building will need an EPC for that property.
Estate or letting agents must also display the energy indicator on any materials they use to market a property for sale or rent.
You won't be required to produce an EPC if you are:
- not selling or renting your property
- renting your property and both parties signed a contract before 30 December 2008
- selling your property and the buyer intends to demolish it.
The following buildings are exempt and don't require an EPC:
- places of worship
- stand-alone buildings of less than 50 square metres (except for dwellings)
- temporary buildings.
Who is responsible for getting the Certificate?
- if a building is being sold the owner of the property is responsible
- if a building is being rented the landlord of the property is responsible
- if a building is being constructed the builder is responsible.
The estate or letting agent is responsible for displaying the EPC information on all marketing materials.
How do I get an EPC?
You can only get an EPC from an accredited Energy Assessor.
The Energy Assessor will visit your property to complete the energy assessment.
Don't forget to ask for photographic identification before letting anyone into your property.
The Energy Assessor will record the EPC on the Northern Ireland register which is available at www.niepcregister.com and they'll then provide you with a copy of the Certificate.
Finding an Energy Assessor
You can find an accredited Energy Assessor in your area at www.niepcregister.com
How much does it cost?
A Certificate for the average Northern Ireland home is approximately £100, but the price will be set by market demand so it can vary. For other properties, the cost depends on the size and complexity of the building.
If you have any queries about EPCs, please call us on 028 9244 7300 or freephone 0800 022 3004.
For more information, go to the Northern Ireland Domestic Energy Performance Certificate Register website at www.niepcregister.com