Energy Performance assessments are varied, and it isn’t easy to fathom how and why an energy assessor gets to a particular rating.

Until recently, EPCs for properties were generally ignored by the consumer. After all, it was just another piece of legislation which didn’t carry any substance – a bit like buying appliances!

However, things are changing, and EPCs are now more critical than ever, mainly due to forthcoming legislation and the cost of living challenges we all face.

One of our long-term customers is looking to move, and we have been advising them on how the process works; they have received their EPC, which based on the amount of energy-efficient work they have executed, seems low – it was graded as an ‘F’ –  A is the most energy-efficient, and ‘G’ is the least.

They didn’t think anything of it as it is merely a bureaucratic piece of paper, right?

Wrong!

Their experience was the opposite of expectation. The agent said the property would “fly out of the door”. It hasn’t, though.

Their property would suit a Buy-to-Let investor or a First Time buyer but after over forty viewings, no offers or even second viewings. So what is wrong with the property?

Sadly the estate agent didn’t follow up with the viewers until we recommended our client question them and politely request that they do so.

They did, and the results were alarming.

Without fail, every viewing with a Buy-to-Let investor cited the main reason they rejected the property was because of the EPC. Forthcoming legislation means they must get the property to a Grade C to rent it legally. Making the necessary improvements will likely cost tens of thousands, so this pool of buyers showed little interest.

Many of the First Time buyers suggested a similar challenge. It turns out that energy efficiency is among the most popular questions this group of buyers will ask in 2023. It makes sense as this group has the least disposable income and requires properties with the cheapest bills.

So what is the solution, as this seller can challenge the EPC rating as many efficient improvements have been made?

When an EPC is executed on a New Build home, it is far easier for an Energy Assessor to be accurate. These properties have a ‘Standard Assessment Procedure‘ whereby the assessor uses the manufacturers’ specifications, which are generally energy efficient. This is why you will find many of these properties with good ratings, such as ‘B’. Ideal for BTL investors and FTBs.

However, the assessor (or the software used) will make certain assumptions when you have an older property (called the Reduced Data Standard Assessment procedure). Whether you have installed new thermostats to control costs, regularly bleed the radiators, or even service the boiler to ensure energy efficiency is irrelevant. You may also have insulated your walls using highly efficient products, yet the assessor won’t count this despite making your home highly efficient. We would argue that EPCs are flawed for older properties.

But you can appeal on your EPC Rating

When your assessor is at the property, give them all your receipts as evidence to support the energy efficiency improvements made to your home. 

If they don’t accept your proof, you can escalate your complaint to the accreditation scheme, and your EPC Certificate will have their details along with the assessor ID, telephone number, and email address. Sending these details to this body could improve your property’s EPC grade – indeed, it is worth a shot and could even allow you to sell your home for more money?

Who knows that it could also mean your buyer is eligible for a Green Mortgage. For more details on this visit Green Mortgages.

Another handy link is for the EPC register on the Governments website; where all EPCs are kept for public use – https://www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate