As soon as the decision to sell or rent you property an Energy Performance certificate EPC) or a Home Information Pack (HIP) must be commissioned (with  a few exceptions).

One of the most important components of a HIP is the Energy Performance Certificate. The requirement for an Energy Performance Certificate has been set by a European Directive which all member states have to implement. The EU found that a significant proportion of energy was being used by commercial and residential properties. Small increases to the energy efficiency in the millions of properties across Europe will result in a significant overall reduction in energy usage.

During the Home Inspection, the Home Inspector will record the key information that affects the energy efficiency of a property. For example, the depth of insulation in the roof will be measured as will the efficiency of the boiler. All this data is entered into a computer program that calculates the energy efficiency and produces a result on an easy-to-read scale.

The overall efficiency is shown on a colour bar chart as displayed above; it’s similar to that seen on a new fridge or freezer.

The energy rating given can be compared to ‘miles per gallon (mpg)’ for a car. The energy report also includes energy saving measures that can be taken to reduce household bills. These include general recommendations applicable to us all and specific points for that individual property. The proposed measures are recommendations only and a guide price to the possible savings is also given.