On Construction EPC: Process and Step-by-Step Guide

With increased awareness, rising energy costs, and stricter regulations, the focus has shifted strongly towards energy efficiency. In the UK, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is no longer just a preference or a choice for buyers, owners, or renters; it’s a legal requirement. Failing to meet this obligation can have some serious repercussions, including heavy penalties. So, whether you’re selling a house or renting out a property, you are legally bound to have a valid EPC. However, this is not just limited to selling or renting a place, as per the legal requirements, every newly constructed house in the UK is also required to obtain a valid On Construction Energy Performance Certificate (OCEPC).

In this blog, we’ll discuss On Construction EPC in detail, providing a step-by-step guide to get one for your newly built residential property.

What is On Construction Energy Performance Certificate (OCPEC)?

If you have a newly constructed or converted house, as soon as its construction is completed, before it is occupied, rented or sold, you need to have an On Construction Energy Performance Certificate. However, an EPC isn’t just a legal requirement; its importance goes far beyond paperwork. It serves as a clear record of how sustainable and energy-efficient your property truly is, making sure this new construction is contributing to energy conservation. In fact, the rating on your EPC can directly influence the market value of your property, either boosting its worth or lowering its appeal.

What is the Process of Getting an On Construction EPC?

1. Find an Accredited Assessor

The first step in the OCEPC process is finding an accredited and well-qualified On Construction Domestic Energy Assessor (OCDEA) for EPC. Look for assessors who are trained to use the Standard Assessment Procedures (SAP) and accredited to provide a legally valid certificate.

2. Design Stage Assessment

Once you have selected OCDEA, contact them to book an appointment for a Design Stage Assessment before the construction is completed. For DSA, you need to provide detailed architectural drawings, including floor plans and elevations, as well as construction plans that detail floor materials, insulation, wall thickness, and other relevant data for thermal performance, ventilation systems, and renewable energy technologies. The DSA is conducted to predict energy efficiency and provide an estimated rating, helping developers identify the necessary changes to improve it.

4. Detailed Evaluation by Experienced Assessors

A property’s energy performance is evaluated as per the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculation, with great attention to detail on build specifications. This evaluation includes a detailed assessment of insulation, heating system, ventilation, air conditioning, air permeability, thermal performance, the percentage of low-energy lighting, and any renewable technologies, such as solar panels. The assessor will not only verify installations, systems, and technologies, but also ensure that all aspects of the construction align with the initial design.

4. EPC Rating Bands for the Property

After a detailed assessment, the OCDEA will provide you with the On Construction EPC, with an EPC rating. The EPC rating indicates the energy efficiency of your property, based on an evaluation of all relevant factors according to the SAP methodology. This rating is given on a scale A to G, where A means most efficient with minimal energy waste, whereas G means high energy use.

5. Lodged On Construction EPC

Your final OCEPC is then formally lodged, and it becomes valid for use. Once you have your EPC, you can provide it for building control sign-off and to sell or rent a property legally.

We understand that obtaining an OCEPC may seem like a daunting task, but if you follow all essential steps, use high-quality insulation, ensure energy-efficient heating and lighting systems and choose a well-qualified assessor, your path to getting an EPC can get pretty straightforward.

Why Choose EPC Yorkshire for Your Energy Performance Certificate?

At EPC Yorkshire, we are Stroma, NES, and Elmhurst-accredited assessors, dedicated to making your EPC issuance seamless and quick. Our team of fully trained professionals and experienced surveyors know how to carry out in-depth assessments in full compliance with SAP methodology and UK guidelines, ensuring an honest and accurate rating based on real findings. No complicated paperwork, no long waits, just a simple process that saves you from delays and penalties.