| Energy Performance Certificates have been introduced to help improve the energy efficiency of buildings in the UK.
If you are buying or selling a home you now need a certificate by law. From October 2008 EPCs have been required whenever a building is built, sold or rented out. The certificate provides 'A' to 'G' ratings for the building, with 'A' being the most energy efficient and 'G' being the least. The average rating in the UK is 'D'. A pretty poor performance.
Accredited energy assessors produce EPCs alongside an associated report which offers improvements on how the building can be more energy efficient.
The EPC is part of a series of measures being introduced across Europe to reflect legislation which will help cut buildings' carbon emissions and tackle climate change.
Other changes include requiring public buildings e.g. town halls, libraries and hospitals, to display certificates showing the energy efficiency of the building.
If you're a landlord you can find more information about Energy Performance Certificates for private residential landlords, including preparing for an inspection.