Check if you need to have the EPC done

EPCs are valid for 10 years.  If you have an EPC already then you do not need to commission another one.  If you bought the property after 2007 you should have an EPC already - check any Home Information Pack you might have. 

If you have upgraded the property you may still choose to have the EPC done again to obtain an improved rating.  Examples of improvements that can improve your rating are Insulation to the roof, walls, floor and hot water tank, upgraded heating systems (for example a new Condensing Boiler or Thermostats on the radiator), double glazing or photovoltaic cells.  Beware - some 'improvements' can have a detrimental impact on your EPC rating, for example taking out old storage heaters and putting in electric panel heaters will reduce your rating substantially.  You may wish to seek independent advise before starting changes. 

If you are in the process of making improvements wait until these are completed before requesting the survey. 

Check which Version of an EPC you Require

There are different versions of an EPC depending on the property.  A full SAP EPC is required for newly build domestic properties and properties newly converted for domestic use.  Existing properties need an RdSAP EPC which will be cheaper to obtain.  Non domestic properties, require a commercial EPC and these will have a sliding scale of costs depending on the size and complexity of the building.

For example, a shop with an existing self contained flat above it will require 2 EPCs, an RdSAP domestic EPC for the Flat and a commercial EPC for the shop.

Bristol Idea provide RdSAP EPCs.

Before the EPC visit : 

The Domestic Energy Assessor will contact you to arrange a convenient time to visit your property.  The DEA is an accredited person qualified to gather the information required to produce your EPC.

You should :

• warn any occupants about the visit 

• if you have a pet that might be upset by the visit please arrange for it to be elsewhere.

• hunt out any documentation you have to support any alterations that have been made to the property.  This documentation can provide evidence of dates that will improve your rating. These include :

• Extensions to the property
• Any insulation added to areas that cannot be seen e.g. Cavity Wall Insulation
• Installation of double glazing
• If you still have the manual for the boiler this is also useful 

• If you have low energy light bulbs to hand then put them in before the DEA arrives.  It's a simple way to improve your rating.

Owner's DEA Visit Checklist

 

During the EPC visit :

The DEA always carries their identity card.  Ensure that they show it to you.  The DEA will look at the age, construction and size of the property.  They will take measurements and photographs.  The DEA will need to visit every room, gain access to the rear of the property, the loft and the cellars and take a look at the gas and electric meters.

They will also take payment at the end of the visit.  A cheque, made payable to Bristol Idea Limited, is the preferred method of payments

After the EPC visit :

The information will be entered into the Landmark Register and a hard copy of your EPC will be printed and sent to you.  The EPC can also be emailed to you if you want it quickly.

Should you have any problem at any stage then please contact us so that we can resolve it with you.  Full contact details are on our Contact Form.  Alternatively you may contact our accreditation scheme, just click the Elmhurst Logo on the EPC Bristol page.

Once you have your report why not try the online tool EPC Adviser to see how you can make changes to your property and save money.

Updated by Wendy on 3rd January 2012