EPC Testing in Scotland Explained

What is An EPC?

EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate. 

An EPC is a document that shows how energy efficient your property is, based on a scale from A to G, where A is the most efficient and G is the least.

Your EPC rating reflects how much energy your property consumes per square meter per year, as well as how much carbon dioxide it emits.

EPC ratings are based on the cost of energy for heating, hot water, lighting and ventilation, calculated based on standardised assumptions.

Understanding EPC Ratings

EPC ratings are calculated based on a number of factors, including the type of property, its construction, and its energy efficiency features.

Breakdown of EPC ratings in Scotland:

A: 92-100 (Most Efficient)
B: 81-91
C: 69-80
D: 55-68
E: 39-54
F: 21-38
G: 1-20 (Least Efficient)

An EPC also provides recommendations on how to improve the energy efficiency of the property and reduce its carbon emissions.

What is EPC Testing?

EPC testing is the process of assessing the energy efficiency of a property. This is done by a qualified domestic energy assessor who will visit the property and conduct a non-intrusive visual survey. 

The assessor will also take photographs and record various aspects of the property, including:

• The size and layout of the property
• The type and age of the construction materials
• The type and efficiency of the heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting systems
• The presence and thickness of insulation
• Window age, material (wood, PVC, etc), glazing type (single/double/triple), and measurements
• Renewable energy sources & documentation
  • Solar panels
  • Heat pump

The assessor will then use this information to calculate the property’s EPC rating.

Watch our video on YouTube to see our EPC assessor conducting an EPC in a Glasgow rental property:

The Benefits of EPC Testing

1. Legal Compliance

All properties in Scotland must have a valid EPC certificate before they can be sold or rented out.

Failure to have a valid EPC certificate when selling or renting out a property is a criminal offence and can result in a fine of up to £5,000.

2. Transparency for Buyers and Tenants

EPC ratings are valuable for buyers and tenants, aiding in comparing properties by assessing potential energy costs and environmental impact.

Scottish EPCs can be found at the Scottish EPC Register.

3. Energy Efficiency Insights

EPCs provide a clear understanding of a property’s current state and offer recommendations for improvement, empowering informed decisions to reduce energy consumption and costs.

4. Reduced Maintenance Costs

Energy-efficient properties generally require less maintenance, saving landlords and homeowners money in the long run.

5. Increased Property Value

Properties with higher EPC ratings often command greater value in the real estate market. EPC testing can enhance property worth, benefitting both the environment and finances, potentially leading to a higher resale or rental value.

6. Environmental Impact

Efforts to improve a property’s energy efficiency rating contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and promote a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to property management.

BONUS 1: Green Mortgages

Some mortgage lenders offer green mortgages, which offer lower interest rates or other financial incentives to borrowers who are buying or remortgaging an energy-efficient home.

Visit Energy Savings Trust to learn more.

BONUS 2: Intrest Free Grants with Energy Savings Trust

The Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan scheme provides grants and/or interest-free loans to help homeowners make energy efficiency improvements to their homes.

Visit Energy Savings Trust to learn more.

Who Needs An EPC?

Landlords

In Scotland, landlords are required to obtain and provide a valid EPC to prospective tenants, ensuring that the property complies with minimum energy efficiency standards.

It’s important for landlords to work with accredited assessors, maintain up-to-date EPCs, and be aware of their legal obligations to avoid potential penalties and provide safe and energy-efficient rental properties.

Homeowners

If you are a homeowner in Scotland, you may not need an EPC unless you plan to sell or rent your property.

However, having an EPC is a valuable asset, as it can help you understand and improve your property’s energy efficiency.

Potential Buyers and Tenants

As a potential buyer or tenant in Scotland, you have the right to request and review the EPC of a property you are interested in.

This information can help you make informed decisions regarding energy costs and the property’s environmental impact.

How Long Does EPC Testing Take?

Depending on the size and complexity of your property, an EPC can take 30 minutes (in a small, simple flat), or it could take 2+ hours (in a large, complex farmhouse).

On average however, an EPC takes 1 to 2 hours.

What Rooms Do EPC Assessors Need to Access?

The energy assessor will need access to all rooms, including lofts and basements, as well as any relevant documents, such as boiler manuals or invoices for insulation work.

You do not need to be present during the assessment, but you should make sure that the assessor can access your property safely and easily.

P.S. We’ve had to cancel an EPC test in the past due to a property’s boiler being located at the very back of a long, winding attic which had no flooring, so make sure you have floors installed before having contractors round!

How Long Is an EPC Valid?

An EPC is valid for 10 years.

However, there are some situations where you may want to get a new EPC before the 10 years have expired.

You may want to get a new EPC if you have made any energy-efficient improvements to your property to reflect your improved rating, making your property more attractive to potential buyers or tenants.

How Much Does EPC Testing Cost?

The cost of EPC testing varies depending on the type and size of your property, as well as the location and availability of the energy assessor.

However, you can expect to pay between £40 to £120 for an EPC in Scotland.

Where Can I Get an EPC in Scotland?

In Scotland, EPC testing is carried out by qualified and accredited energy assessors who follow the Scottish Building Standards Agency (SBSA) guidelines.

To get an EPC for your property in Scotland, you need to contact an energy assessor who covers your area and arrange a suitable time for them to visit your property.

Once the assessment is completed, the assessor will issue you with an EPC that is valid for 10 years. You should keep a copy of the EPC for your records and provide it to potential buyers or tenants when you market your property.

Book an EPC Today: Improve Your Property’s Value, Energy Efficiency, and Environmental Impact

If you’re a landlord or property manager, an EPC is essential for improving your property’s value, energy efficiency, and environmental responsibility.

If you’re selling or renting your property in Scotland, you’re legally required to have an EPC. So don’t delay – contact us today to book your EPC testing with one of our qualified and accredited energy assessors.

We offer competitive prices, fast turnaround times, and excellent customer service. We look forward to hearing from you soon!