ABOUT HIPS & THE EPC

Home Information Packs have been introduced as part of the Housing Act 2004. The main purpose of the HIP is to improve the process of buying and selling properties within the UK, whilst the inclusion of the EPC into the HIP has been driven by an EU Directive which, amongst other things, promotes the improvement of the energy performance of buildings within the European Union.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a mandatory part of the Home Information Pack (HIP) which became compulsory for 4, or more, bedroomed properties from the 1st August 2007. This legal requirement will become effective for all residential properties on Friday 14th December 2007.

How can I get an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate can be commissioned as a standalone document by contacting IDEA (Southern) Ltd or, more commonly, as part of a Home Information Pack prepared by your Solicitor or a national pack provider – IDEA (Southern) Ltd (01323 738535) have formed close working relationships with local solicitors and are on the panels of the major providers.

What does an EPC look like?

A certificate gives a building an asset rating based on its energy efficiency: The Certificate will give the building a rating from A to G. An A rating shows it is very efficient, meaning lower fuel bills, while G is inefficient, meaning higher fuel bills. The Certificate will also show the building's environmental impact: by indicating its carbon dioxide emissions. Not all buildings are used in the same way. However, energy ratings use 'standard occupancy' assumptions, which might be different from the specific way a building is used.

All the methodologies used to produce Energy Performance Certificates consider factors such as the size, age, location of a building, and how it's heated, lit and insulated.

There will also be recommendations for cost-effective actions to improve the building's rating. The potential rating is based on all these recommendations being implemented.
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