EPC HISTORY

Where did EPC's come from ?
EPC's are an outcome from the European Union Directive 2002/91/EC, inspired by the Kyoto Protocol that aimed at cutting back on energy consumption and ecological deterioration due to CO 2 emissions.

When did EPC's become a legal requirement ?
The Directive became European law on 4 January 2003. Member States, including the UK, had three years in which to implement the Directive – i.e. the provisions had to be transposed into UK Regulations by January 2006. A transition period applied until January 2009 for States who did not have sufficient assessors by January 2006.

Are they required in N.Ireland ?
In N.Ireland, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) is being implemented jointly by the Department of Finance and Personnel and the Department for Social Development. HIP’s ( Home Information Packs) will not be a requirement in NI, but EPC’s will be produced as stand-alone documents. Articles 3-6 of the EPBD were implemented through an update to Building Regulations in November 2006. They became a legal requirement in N.Ireland on 30 June 2008.

When do you need an EPC ?
It is a requirement when buildings are constructed, sold or rented out that an Energy Performance Certificate is made available by the owner to the prospective buyer or tenant. The Northern Ireland Executive intends to reduce Northern Ireland's carbon footprint as buildings that are more energy efficient should also be cheaper to run and be more attractive to prospective owners.

Enforcement – What if I don’t have an EPC?
It is now a legal requirement that a building has an EPC in place before being offered for sale our rent. If you don’t have an EPC – you are breaking the law! Enforcement is currently being carried out through Northern Ireland Building Control.

BUILT ENERGY is a Northern Ireland company, owned and operated by Chartered Architects and Surveyors, with many years experience in the construction industry.

All of our assessors are fully ABBE accredited, have had Criminal Record Bureau checks and hold professional indemnity insurance. By commissioning us to undertake your energy assessment, you are guaranteed the professionalism of a team who understand the built environment and you are not leaving your most valuable investment in the hands of a speculator. 

How much does it cost ?
The average 3 bedroom family home EPC only costs around £50-£70, our price list gives a detailed breakdown based on property size. With EPC’s lasting for 10 years, it means that for around 60p per month, you can make a big impact on your energy bills. An EPC includes a detailed energy survey, recommendations and certificate; normally available within 48 hours from survey. It is beneficial especially if you are not moving as you can make simple home improvements that will not only make your home more comfortable but save you money as well.

What else do we offer ?

• Competitive pricing and contracted volume discounts.
• Northern Ireland coverage.
• One point of contact for instruction, queries and billing via a dedicated Account Manager.
• Site notes are stored on our secure online database if you have a query about a completed EPC we can send you the site notes for further explanation.
• Fully automated instruction software which enables us to deliver EPC’s normally within 24 – 72 working hours.