EPC

Energy Performance Certificates ('EPCs') were introduced pursuant to the Directive 2002/91/EC on the Energy Performance of Buildings adopted by the Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007 (the EPC Regulations)

As part of this assessment we are required to verify information about the property including: the build date; construction materials; internal and external dimensions of building; the internal configuration; full details of the heating and any air conditioning systems, and we will also capture details of glazing and lighting.. Photographs and other documentary evidence must be produced to verify the data.

"The penalty for failing to make an EPC available to any prospective buyer or tenant when selling or letting non-dwellings is fixed, in most cases, at 12.5 per cent of the rateable value of the building, with a default penalty of £750 where the formula cannot be applied. A formula is used as the costs of producing an EPC for non dwellings are expected to vary according to the size, complexity and use of the building. The range of penalties under this formula are set with a minimum of £500 and capped at a maximum of £5,000."

The current regulations at a glance:

• A valid EPC will be required on the sale or letting of any commercial or residential property
• The front page of the report is required to form part of /or be attached to the marketing particulars
• Marketing can commence if instructions have been issued to the EPC provider but the EPC must be in place within 7 days of the commencement of marketing of the property