Are EPC and EICR the same?

EPC:

EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate. It includes vital information on the property’s energy use. It is crucial to remember that these figures are focused on the national median and may not reflect how much energy is spent by the people who live in that specific home.

Following an EPC, you will be given an energy efficiency grade ranging from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), as well as a score indicating how high or low you should anticipate your expenses will become (the highest number equating to the lowest bill cost). Along with the ratings, you will receive guidance and recommendations on how to reduce your energy use in order to lower your rating and hence your monthly expenditures.

An EPC is good for ten years and must be renewed by a qualified expert when it expires. Did you know that if you sell or rent with us, we can organize an EPC? Before putting the house on the market, you must obtain a valid EPC. Another thing to keep in mind: if you’re thinking about renting out a house, the EPC ratings must be higher than E to qualify for a lease. 

The certification will include the following information:

• The prospective cost of making the changes, as well as the usual savings over a three-year period.
• heating, lighting, and hot water bills after renovations; total possible savings; 
• the building energy rating you may earn after making modifications to your house

EICR:

The EICR stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report (previously known as Periodic Inspection). It is a report that details the state of the electrical infrastructure on the property. Upon fulfilment of an EICR, customers will be provided with a complete list of the repairs that must be made to the building in order to fulfil the standards. This should be completed within 28 days. All landowners are legally required to have an EICR performed on their rental home every 5 years; failure to do so may lead to fines worth up to £30,000, therefore it is a great idea to take note of if your future EICR is due.

A periodic inspection check, also known as an electrical installation condition report (EICR), is performed to ensure that the property is electrically safe for renters.

This sort of report is created to aid in the identification of the following:

• Wiring integrity and deterioration
• Electrical equipment, such as plugs and switches, is damaged.
• ensuring compliance with applicable BS7671 norms
• It safeguards electrical appliances and peripherals against electrical damage and fire threats.

Difference between EPC and EICR

An EPC assesses a property’s energy performance, whereas an EICR assesses the condition of its electrical systems.

What Is the Purpose of an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?

Every landlord is required by law to have an EICR performed on their rental home every five years. If this is not done, you may face penalties of up to £30,000, therefore keep note of when the next inspection is scheduled.

EICR in England for Domestic Properties

Did you know that most electrical fires in England are caused by faulty or obsolete electrical wiring systems? Having a competent electrician inspect your electrical system can guarantee that your house meets all of the relevant safety standards. Our fully certified electricians at Landlords Checks provide an efficient and skilled service. 

How to Raise Your Energy Efficiency Score

An EPC will recommend strategies to enhance your rating and provide estimated expenses. These upgrades will assist you, your buyer, or your renters save money on bills while also reducing the property’s environmental effect.

Common suggestions include:

• Floor, roof, loft, or wall insulation. Improved insulation decreases the demand for heating, cutting your energy expenditure.
• Double glazing: double-glazed windows retain substantially more heat, lowering the demand for heating.
• Solar panels: they provide less expensive, cleaner electricity. For additional information, see our solar panel tips.
• Low-energy lighting: a minor improvement that requires no structural changes, adopting low-energy light bulbs is a cheap and simple approach to reduce energy expenditures.