With energy performance of rental properties potentially being back on the agenda, we thought it would be useful to take a look at the EPC certificates themselves. In particular, because in a recent report by Which?, Energy Performance Certificates have been slammed as being riddled with inaccuracies and give unhelpful advice to property owners.
Back in February and March Which? Conducted a study to determine the accuracy of the EPC process. They selected twelve members who were homeowners across England, Wales and Scotland and booked EPC assessments on their behalf.
The properties ranged in age and style; from a one-bedroom flat to a five-bedroom detached house.
The study uncovered several issues with the accuracy of the results and the recommendations that homeowners received:
- One homeowner had their EPC survey done, but never received their certificate.
- Another homeowner achieved a D rating for energy efficiency for their 1980s four-bedroom semi-detached bungalow following their EPC assessment but there were several discrepancies and omissions including the assessor failing to notice and include various energy efficient features in their property. The property was subsequently reassessed as a B rating but only after Which? Pointed out the errors to the assessor.
Another homeowner also achieved a D rating for energy efficiency for her two-bedroom Victorian terraced house in London. The recommended improvements were prohibitively expensive, with a very long payback period (29 years). In addition, the improvements only raised the EPC rating by one category to a C rating.
Which? Concludes from this study that the EPC process is in desperate need of reform and is calling for the next government to reform EPCs to make them a more reliable and useful tool for householders. In addition to addressing concerns about the accuracy and reliability of EPCs, Which? believes the design and content and structure of EPCs should be improved to ensure they provide consumers with the information and advice they need. This should include information to help consumers prepare for the transition to low-carbon heating.
EPCs are based on assessments by Domestic Energy Assessors, who can qualify through several different accreditation schemes that provide online and in person training. Which? wants the next government to review auditing of EPCs and the training requirements for this role to ensure that assessors have the skills needed to complete reliable assessments.
With the country facing a struggle to move to a low carbon environment, the financial burden is shifting increasingly to homeowners. Assessment systems need to be fit for purpose and most importantly, accurate so that the public has confidence in the results. In addition, governments need to realise that many of the costs associated with making these changes are simply not financially viable for most without significant financial support being made available.
Given the findings from the Which? study, it’s clear that the current EPC system has significant flaws that can mislead property owners and potentially result in unnecessary expenses. For landlords and property investors, these inaccuracies could mean misguided investments and missed opportunities for enhancing property value through energy efficiency improvements.
As the government moves towards stricter energy efficiency standards, staying informed and proactive is crucial. Ensuring your properties have accurate EPCs not only helps in compliance but also makes your rental properties more appealing to eco-conscious tenants.
What Can Kent Landlords Do?
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of any changes in EPC regulations and standards. This will help you anticipate and comply with new requirements swiftly.
- Reassess Your Properties: Consider having a second opinion on your EPC rating, especially if your initial assessment was done several years ago or if you suspect inaccuracies.
- Invest Wisely: Use accurate EPC information to guide your energy efficiency investments, ensuring they are cost-effective and offer a good return.
- Advocate for Change: Support calls for EPC reforms to ensure that future assessments are reliable and beneficial
Get in Touch with Us
At Lifeboat Lettings, we understand the importance of accurate EPCs and their impact on your property’s marketability and compliance. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you navigate these changes and ensure your properties meet the latest energy efficiency standards.
Call us on 01233 802803 to learn more or book an EPC assessment.
