Energy performance certificates (EPCs) in Bristol
HIPs & EPCs Explained
The mandatory documents are:
- An index (ie a list of the contents of the HIP)
- A sale statement (summarising the terms of sale)
- Evidence of title
- Standard searches (ie local authority enquiries and a drainage and water search)
- An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Commonhold information (where appropriate)
- A copy of the lease (where appropriate)
Optional documents include:
- A Home Condition Report (HCR)
- Additional leasehold, information
- Guarantees and warranties
- Other searches relevant to the particular area
What does an Energy Performance Certificate look like?
The Energy Performance Certificate is broadly similar to the certificates found on many domestic appliances.
A Certificate for a building gives the building an asset rating based on its energy efficiency, but doesn't take into account how the home is used by the occupiers. The Certificate will give the building a rating from A to G. An A rating shows it's very efficient, meaning lower fuel bills, while G is inefficient, meaning higher fuel bills. The Certificate will also show the building's environmental impact by indicating its carbon-dioxide emissions.
There will also be recommendations for cost-effective actions to improve the building's rating. The potential rating is based on all the recommendations being implemented.
An Energy Performance Certificate will be required for most homes marketed for sale.