Do I Need a New EPC?

It’s often confusing for homeowners and landlords to know when and even if they need a new EPC. In this article I’ll cover the most common questions asked on Do I Need a New EPC.

There are some situations where legally you do need a new EPC and other’s where it is beneficial to have one and some where you do not need one at all.

Do I Need a New EPC Certificate to Sell My House?

Yes, it’s a legal requirement to possess a valid EPC when selling a property. The EPC informs potential buyers about the energy efficiency of your house, offering recommendations for improvements. This enhances the appeal and potentially the value of your property, making it a worthwhile investment.

If there is an existing EPC on the government epc register then you don’t need a new one. If there is no EPC on the register, or it has expired, then you will need a new one.

TIP: If you have made upgrades to either the heating system or to the insulation since the last EPC it is a good idea to get a new one as the rating is likely to have improved and will show the property in a better light.

Do I Need a New Gas and Electric Certificate to Sell My House?

While not a legal requirement for selling a property, having a gas safety certificate and electric certificate is only a legal requirement for rental properties. Providing these certifications can demonstrate to potential buyers that the property is safe and well-maintained, adding an extra layer of trust and appeal.

Do I Need a New EPC If I Extend My House

There is no legal requirement for a new EPC if you extend your property.

If you’re planning to extend your house, be mindful that this will change your property’s EPC rating.

If the property has a low cost of fuel to heat the home, such as gas or oil, the extension will probably improve the rating. However if your property has an expensive fuel source such as peak rate electric or LPG, then more space usually means more energy required, which could lower your rating.

Do I Need a New EPC If I Improve My Insulation

Improving the insulation of your house is a cost-effective strategy to boost your property’s energy efficiency. Better insulation leads to reduced energy consumption, which translates to an improved EPC rating and increased property appeal.

The actual thickness of the insulation fitted plays a big part. Make sure you fit at least 50mm thickness of what ever insulation you are fitting. If the thickness is less that 50mm it may not be sufficient to enter into the EPC software.

Do I Need a New EPC If I Change My Boiler

The type of boiler you have can significantly influence your EPC rating. It does depend on the type of boiler that you upgrading from. All boilers have a specific efficiency. For simplicity’s sake I have split the boilers into 3 groups of efficiencies. They are:

1. Older type non condensing boilers with a pilot light that is permanently on. These types of boilers have an efficiency of around 69%.
2. Slightly newer boilers over 15 years old that are non condensing boilers but have automatic ignition for the pilot light and fan assisted flues. These boilers have an efficiency of around 78%.
3. Most modern boilers. These boilers are efficient condensing boilers with automatic ignition of around 89%.

So back to the original question “do I need a new epc if I change my boiler?”

There is no legal reason to update the EPC if you change the boiler.

If you have upgraded the boiler from a condensing boiler to another condensing boiler, there will be no change in the EPC rating because the boiler efficiency will be the same.

If you change the boiler from a low efficiency boiler to a higher efficiency boiler, then the epc rating will be improved and it’s worth considering getting a new EPC.

How Much Does a New Boiler Improve EPC Rating?

If you are upgrading from a low 69% efficiency boiler to a modern condensing boiler it will give you around 8 points.

If you are upgrading from a medium 78% efficiency boiler to a modern condensing boiler, you will gain around 4 points.

If you are replacing a condensing boiler with another condensing boiler, no additional points will be gained.

Which Boiler is Best for EPC Rating?

Due to government regulations, all boilers fitted now are condensing boilers, with a high efficiency of between 89% and 90%, so there is little difference between these boilers in terms of EPC rating.

Modern condensing boilers ensure that more fuel is converted into usable heat, maintaining warmth without wasting energy.

From day to day customer feedback in the field, Baxi, Worchester Bosch, Viesmen, and Valliant receive the most favourable reviews in terms of reliability and being problem free.

Does Boiler Service Affect EPC?

No, servicing of the boiler does not affect the EPC rating.

Does the EPC Check the Boiler?

The EPC Assessor does not physically check the condition of the boiler, as the EPC is not a condition report. The only information needed about the boiler is the exact make and model. These details are then entered into the software which tells the Assessor the efficiency of that make and model.

Can You Sell a House with a Back Boiler?

Selling a house with a back boiler is possible, but keep in mind that these are outdated and less energy-efficient, which could negatively affect your EPC rating.

Should I Get Rid of My Back Boiler?

Upgrading to a more modern and energy-efficient boiler is advisable, as it can enhance your EPC rating and increase your property’s appeal.

In conclusion, investing in the energy efficiency of your property is vital in today’s competitive market. A high EPC rating not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also serves as a key asset, boosting your property’s appeal to potential buyers.