For simpler and easier access to Energy Performance Certificates by the public and its stakeholders, the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government has come up with changes that will affect all energy assessment strands.  They include Reduced data Standard Assessment Procedure (RdSAP), Systems, Applications, and Products in Data Processing systems (SAP), Network Data Envelopment Analysis Systems(NDEA), Display Energy Certificate systems (DEC) and Air Conditioning Systems.

There is an exception to the Scottish Register. Besides, a few changes have been planned for Scotland later in the year. The changes will apply to all Energy Performance Certificates registers for England, Northern Ireland, and Wales. With new strategic goals that have been set, the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government will host combined England, Wales, and Northern Ireland Energy Performance Certificates registers via a government website. These changes will simplify and enhance the ease of use for both public and key stakeholders. Detailed guidance on changes will be published on a later date by the Stroma certification.

What is changing?

The new combined register will be located at a government website with all Energy Performance Certificates, Display Energy Certificate, and Air-Conditioning Inspections Report. All certificates will be applied and issued online, and there will be no provision of Pdfs. Therefore, clients should be notified to adjust their systems. There is also a change in the appearance and content of the certificates. The changes should be communicated to the clients so that they can make alterations. Another important change is that one will not be able to retrieve draft certificates before lodging them.

Stroma is changing its software to enable you to make the necessary sense checks of the input data. The address will change from Landmark addresses or use of Unique Property Reference Number to one based on the Ordinance survey. Therefore, there will be a change to way address searches, address addition requests, and Unique Property Reference Number searches work. After the changes, there will no longer be the current landmark Energy Performance Certificates register.

All the Energy Performance Certificates that had been previously logged will be migrated to the new register before the launch. Redundant Residue Number systems will likely change from the current 20 digits to 20 digit alphanumeric. This should be communicated to the client to make the necessary changes. Find an Energy Assessor is changing to make it more user friendly.

What is not changing?

All software will continue to produce lodge-able Energy Performance Certificates except for Air Conditioning Inspection Reports. The process of lodging will not be affected as you will be able to enter data and lodge the Energy Performance Certificates.

Certificates that had been previously lodged will be available in the new register with a new format. Stroma members’ areas will remain unchanged, and the process for lodging Energy Performance Certificates and Display Energy Certificate will remain the same. At the moment, there will no change in the registration and submission fee. They will also remain VAT free and will be invoiced the same way via Stroma.

In July, the UK government announced a £2 billion Green Homes Grant Scheme for homeowners and landlords to help make their homes and property more energy sufficient.

Homeowners and landlords in the United Kingdom can apply for vouchers to fund at least two-thirds of the hiring costs of plumbers, builders, and other tradespeople to upgrade the energy efficiency performance of their property, up to £5,000.

As well as helping create thousands of jobs, the UK government believes the Grant scheme will help the country meet its 2050 target of achieving zero carbon emissions.

According to the treasury, the vouchers when properly utilised can save families up to £300 annually on energy bills. Chancellor Sunak state that the average annual savings is around £200.

Homeowners will be able to apply for the vouchers in September. Details of the entire Grant Scheme are still limited and they will be released as time passes.

The main freebies and energy grants

The UK government has made energy as one of the main sectors for grant-giving to promote the reduction of the carbon impact on the environment. The local authorities, the government, and the energy suppliers all offer grants to aid homeowners and landlords in implementing energy-saving measures.

The energy-saving grants result in an increase in your property’s value, economy, and the home’s warmth. You also save a lot of money by insuring your boiler against breakdown and cutting electricity costs.

Boiler Grants and Freebies

Energy providers are offering freebies, such as new boilers, cavity wall insulation, and loft insulation. Such freebies are offered to certain groups, mainly those receiving certain benefits like pension credit, tax credits, universal credit, or income-based benefits. Here are some of the benefits you can get:

Loft insulation – A lot of heat in your home escapes through the roof, you can solve this issue by laying mineral wool under your rafters, which leads to savings of up to £225/yr.

Cavity wall insulation – Most homes especially those built from 1920 to 1990 have a gap between the external and internal walls. Filling the gap with insulating foam and mineral wool ensures that warm air stays in while cold air is kept out. This leads to an approximate of up to £225/yr savings for a three-bedroom.

Boiler repair or replacement – Heating accounts for 60 percent of your energy bills annually. Replacing your old boiler with a new efficient one could save your energy bills up to £315 per year.

How the Grant Works

To obtain the vouchers, landlords and homeowners will be required to fill an online application that details the energy efficiency measures they will undertake. The details are forwarded to licensed local suppliers. Once the supplier issues a quote and approves the application, the government will provide a voucher.

Who can apply?

According to the chancellor, both landlords and homeowners will be eligible, but we await further details. Chancellor Sunak confirmed that approximately 650,000 homes will be covered by the Grant Scheme. A research conducted by Moneysupermarket in July fount out 51 percent of homeowners are planning to undertake the initiative while 26 percent are considering doing so.  However, this Grant scheme is not eligible for people living in Scotland.

 

 

The Benefits Of Obtaining An Energy Performance Certificate

In the United Kingdom, all buildings that have been sold, rented, or recently built must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). It is an official document which explains how energy efficient a building is.

Although most property owners only obtain an EPC when it is mandated by the government, there are several additional benefits associated with getting one. In this guide, I’ll be highlighting several of these exciting benefits.

If you are a property owner in need of an energy performance certificate, call our EPC Lowdham team on 0800 044 37855. You can also continue reading to learn more about the advantages of obtaining an energy performance certificate for your property.

What Is An Energy Performance Certificate?

In 2007, the UK government introduced Energy Performance Certificates as a part of its Home Information Packs (HIPS) initiative. This initiative was designed to make it easier for potential buyers to assess and purchase properties. The HIPs initiative was eventually scrapped, but EPCs were retained.

The objective of an energy performance certificate is to give owners, prospective buyers, tenants, and authorities a better understanding of how energy efficient a building is.

To determine a building’s EPC rating, a qualified and accredited energy assessor will visit the property and examine its components including:

• Floor and loft insulation
• Hot water tanks
• Cavity walls
• Radiators
• Boilers
• Windows
• Heating controls and more

The process is completely non-invasive, with the EPC assessor making some assumptions about the insulation of the property based on its age and design.

The measurements and observations the ECP assessor takes are put into a computer program, which calculates the building’s overall energy efficiency. The program returns a number between 1 and 100, with 1 being the least energy efficient and 100 being the most energy efficient.

The letters A through G are also used to represent the building’s EPC rating, with an ‘A’ rating being the most efficient and a ‘G’ rating being the least energy efficient.

Other information on the EPC certificate includes the estimated carbon dioxide emissions, energy usage estimates, fuel costs, details of the building which was assessed, and the details of the EPC assessor. The certificate remains valid for 10 years.

Getting an EPC is mandatory if you:

• Intend to rent or sell a property
• Complete construction on a new building
• Make substantial changes to how a property is heated or cooled. This includes adding or removing fixed heating, air conditioning, or mechanical ventilation systems

All properties that use energy to ‘condition an indoor climate’ will require an EPC at some point.

Getting An EPC In Lowdham

If you own the property in question, all you need to do is contact a qualified EPC assessor in Lowdham and schedule a time for an inspection. If you are selling your property, your real estate agent may be able to help you organise an EPC inspection.

Benefits of Getting An EPC Certificate

Here are just a few of the additional benefits associated with obtaining an EPC certificate for your property:

Your property becomes more attractive to prospective buyers

In the UK, prospective buyers have become much more aware of issues like sustainability, energy efficiency, and climate change. Most buyers prefer to avoid buildings that are poorly designed and expensive to heat or cool.

If your property performs well in its EPC assessment, it is a major selling point for your property. Prospective buyers will know the property is comfortable and affordable to live in, because of its excellent EPC rating.

The first step in improving energy efficiency

An EPC certificate gives your a very accurate benchmark of the energy efficiency of your property. You can use this score to assess how the changes you are making to the property are improving its performance over time.

Professional advice

Our professional ECP assessors will be able to provide advice on the most cost effective methods for improving the energy efficiency of your property. Their extensive experience providing EPCs in Lowdham helps them understand the issues that properties in the area often suffer from.

Ensures your property is compliant with latest standards

Obtaining a Lowdham EPC helps you understand how well your property compares to more modern homes. You may discover that your rating is gradually declining, as the construction standards of new homes improve. This can help you understand when it is time to renovate your property to improve its energy efficiency.

Cheaper energy bills

One of the main reasons to have an EPC assessment performed is that it can substantially reduce the cost of your bills. Once you have identified and improved the components of your home which are outdated, you can achieve significant cost reductions.

Thank you for reading. If you are interested in obtaining an EPC Lowdham, please contact our team on 0800 044 37855 today. We are the leading provider of EPC certificates in Lowdham and can help you dramatically improve the energy efficiency of your property.

Energy Performance Certification – Step 1!

Most properties in the UK will require a Energy Performance Certification, however this is under the assumption that the property is using heating or air conditioning. To check if your property requires an EPC certification, visit The Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government.

Step 2- Accredited Assessor

There are a number of online resources, including The Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government, which will allow you to search and contact an accredited assessor.

Step 3 – Appointment

Your accredited assessor will need to make an arrangement to come and visit your property.  The assessment may take up to 1 hour and you will need to be available to answer any questions. The finds of this visit will be reported in your Energy Performance Certification.

Step 5- The Results

After the appointment your assessor will run through the results of his visit and explain your rating. Your property will be rated from A-G, A being the most efficient. You will also be provided with advice on how you can improve your rating, for example by replacing your boiler for a more energy efficient option or installing loft insulation.

If you are looking to sell your property or need your Energy Performance Certification urgently, some companies can offer a 24 hour turnaround.

Step 6- Updating your Energy Performance Certification.

Your EPC Certification will be valued for a 10 year period. During that time, landlords can use the certification for multiple tenancies of that specific property. If you make some improvements to your home and want a certification which reflects your improved energy efficiency, you need to repeat the assessment.

An Energy Performance Certification is a legal requirement for many buildings across the UK. Failure to have an up date certification can result in a fine, so make sure you update every 10 years.

What is an EPC rating?

The Energy Performance Certification (EPC) scheme is an assessment of how much energy your home uses. Your EPC rating is calculated on a variety of factors and graded between A-G, A being a highly energy efficient home.

Why do we need to know about our energy efficiency?

Ensuring your home is energy efficient is not only advantageous for your monthly outgoings, but also kinder to the environment.  The EPC certification highlights problem areas which can be rectified, reducing costs long term and resulting in lower emissions.

How can I find out the EPC rating of my home?

An EPC is valid for a ten year period and is a legal requirement for every building in the UK.  You can get your EPC Certification via an accredited domestic energy agency who will visit your home to asses your rating.

If you are looking at renting or buying a property, it is a good idea to ask to see the certification. By understanding the rating, you will be able to get a better understanding of how much to budget for monthly energy bills.

Can I improve my Energy Performance rating?

There are many ways in which a homeowner or landlord can improve their EPC rating.  Some modifications may involve larger financial investment, but there are also some simple changes which can assist in increasing energy efficiency. For example:

• Hanging Thicker Curtains To Insulate Doors
• Water Saving Shower-Head
• Eco Kettle
• Changing Habits- switching off appliances and lights.
• Opting for loft insulation or installing a new boiler can initially be costly, however long term they will generally wok out more cost effective and will be more attractive to buyers, if you decide to sell your home.

Get your EPC rating Certification today.

How energy efficient is your property? Get your EPC Burton Joyce now!

The recent dramatic protests from Extinction Rebellion have certainly brought the issue of climate change back to the forefront. In scenes resemblant of a Glastonbury after-party, activists glued themselves together before setting sail in a vivid pink boat to sleep under the skeleton of a big blue whale, all under the watchful eye of a skateboarding policeman. Joking aside, the problem is real and whilst you may not be able to offer grand gestures of the Greta Thunberg dimension, you can do your bit, starting with gaining your EPC Burton Joyce certification.

Be part of the change…..

The conversation around climate change is complex, involving governments and spanning the globe. Originating at the 1992 Earth summit the Kyoto Protocol was drawn up in an effort to moti-vate countries to reduce carbon emissions, an objective which the European Union and the Uk are successfully achieving, via strategies such as the introduction of the EPC Certification.

Why do I need an EPC certification?

Legally, an EPC certification is required when a property is newly built, rented or sold. However as responsible homeowners we should be aspiring to ensure our homes are as energy efficient as possible, saving time, saving money – a win win situation! Properties are given a rating from A-G, A denoting high energy efficiency and G indicating low energy efficiency. So whilst governments and nations look at the bigger picture, by gaining your EPC Burton Joyce, you can be part of the change.

The Opportunity….

Currently the Uk is presented with an opportunity. The housing crisis means that many new houses are needing to be built whilst older stocks are in need of renovation. Homeowners and landlords should ensure properties are reaching high levels of efficiency and contributing towards positive change. Contact us today to gain your EPC Burton Joyce.

EPC Nottingham – Will yours be affected?

Deal or no deal, the Brexit storm blows on! After seemingly endless parliamentary debates, a zillion flights to Brussels and Brextension meaning the nightmare may not end until halloween, patience is at an all time low. Whilst Brexiteers and Remainers might disagree on many things, most would welcome an end to this period of uncertainty. Brexit is set to create a variety of changes from trade to employment and it could even effect smaller issues such as EPC certifications. Have you recently checked your EPC Nottingham?

The Lowdown on Brexit and EPC!

EPC Certifications are currently required for new build homes and anyone selling or renting out a property. Whilst it is speculated that EPC certifications will remain part of legislation after the country has left the EU, there may be some effects to the way ratings are calculated.For example, whilst many responsible homeowners have installed more energy efficient technology, currently this is not always reflected in the grading. However it is not all good news!

Get Britain Building……

The housing crisis means there is a distinct need for new builds and the redevelopment of existing properties. Currently, EPC Nottingham Certifications are governed by EU legislations, however once Brexit has taken place, there may be space for change. A recent scheme to only build new homes with a zero carbon emission has been shelved and whilst this may reduce the cost of the initial build, the higher price will be paid further down the line.

EPC Nottingham – Let’s be the ones to get it right!

Brexit is certainly set to make changes and whilst legislation could potentially be relaxed, we all have the power of personal choice. Be part of the change and ensure your property has a low carbon emission. Check your EPC Nottingham rating today

WARNING! Your NOTTINGHAM EPC may be expiring?

Ten years on, does your Nottingham EPC need renewing?

Back in 2008, the government introduced EPC certifications for rented properties. This meant each property needed to be assessed on how energy efficient it was. Properties were given a grading between A-G, A being the most efficient. Ten years on, your EPC certificate may be expiring! Have you checked yours?

Have there been any changes to the Nottingham EPC certification?

Just because your property had a good EPC rating ten years ago, it does not guarantee you will pass with flying colours. Not only will your property have aged, but the grading systems now require higher overall standards.

All properties will now be required to have an efficiency rating of at least E. Properties which fall below these standards will be illegal to rent out and require renovation or need to be taken off the market.

Landlords should note that the ruling only currently applies to new tenancy contracts or renewals, but it will include all properties by 2020. Therefore it is highly recommended that landlords who think their properties will not pass the certification should consider any necessary renovations sooner rather than later.

Top Tips For improving Your Nottingham EPC Rating

A responsible landlord will be actively trying to increase EPC rating on their properties. Our tips below are designed to give you a helping hand.

Loft Insulation – You don’t need to completely replace, just simply topping up or adding a layer can increase your rating by 5 points.

Windows – Does your property still have single glazing? Upgrading to double glazed windows is one of the major factors in increasing ratings.

Heating Systems – Replacing heating systems is a costly exercise, however remember that you are investing in your own property. A heating upgrade could increase your EPC rating by up to 20 points.

MEES – Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards! 

Abbreviations are in abundance across all industries and property is no exception. Failure to understand industry terms and jargon, can lead to confusion. Our quick guide to MEES ensures complete understanding and the implication of what it means for your properties or business.

Let’s start with another abbreviation, EPC!  EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate, which relates to the energy efficiency of a property. The assessment takes into consideration factors such as windows, heating systems, insulation and doors. The property will be then given a grading related to how efficient it is deemed to be, letter A being the highest grade and G being the lowest.

So back to MEES! The MEES ruling came into effect in Spring 2018. It basically means that a landlord cannot renew or offer a new tenancy, if a property has an efficiency rating of less than F. The ruling is intended to help the government achieve their objectives to reduce carbon emissions. It is also welcome news to many tenants who will benefit from reduced heating bills .

What happens if a landlord breaks the MEES ruling?

Landlords in breach of the MEES standards will face hefty fees. If the property has been in breach for less than 3 months, fines are charged at 10% of the rateable value. This percentage rises to 20% for properties over the 3 month period.

Do you think your property could be affected?

At first glance the MEES ruling might seem like bad news for landlords, but there is a positive spin. Home improvements always add value to a property and a good EPC rating is more attractive for prospective new tenants, ensuring your property stays ahead of the competition. Check your EPC certification to confirm your current rating. Along with your certification, you should have also received a report which offers advice on how to improve your current rating. This usually includes suggestions such as replacing loft insulation, fitting smart heating controls and switching to LED lighting. Check today to avoid any unwanted fines!

A helpful guide to the Nottingham Selective License!

What is Nottingham Selective Licensing?

Staying ahead of the property game is always a challenge. The market is continually changing as are the rules and regulations. So if you are a landlord operating in Nottingham, are you aware of the Nottingham Selective Licensing?

The new scheme means that certain properties within designated zones require a licence if the landlord should want to rent it out. Check if the new ruling applies to your property by clicking the link below.

http://geoserver.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/myproperty/

Why has the rule been introduced?

The licence has been introduced in a bid to raise standards in privately rented accommodations. The scheme is to help the local council achieve their objectives in ensuring private tenants live in secure, safe and well maintained homes.

What documentation will I need?

In order to gain your licence under the new Nottingham Selective License regulations, you will need to ensure that you have the relevant documentation. These include, public liability insurance, DBS check, electrical safety certification, gas safety certification, EPC, PAT test and relevant landlord training.

How much does the new licence cost?

A licence is required for each property that a landlord wants to rent, charged at £780 per property. However if you require any documentation outlined in the list above, additional charges will also be applicable.

What happens if I do not apply?

Failing to apply for the Nottingham Selective License can result in fines of up to £30,000 and so it is imperative to ensure whether your home is in one of the designated areas. The council are actively checking land registry and council tax records to ensure landlords are adhering to the new rulings. If you are currently working with a property agent, they should be able to offer any advice or assistance required.