Managing carbon emissions, improving efficiency, and adopting greener practices are essential topics, not only in the UK but also all over the world. To work towards cost savings and climate responsibility, an initiative known as the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has been taken. This is a report card that describes your property’s energy efficiency, determining whether it passes with a good grade or requires improvements. The EPC is considered to be a mandatory step whether you are constructing a new house, going to sell it or putting it on the market for rent. The same rule applies to Stoke, also known as Stoke-on-Trent, which has a mix of residential, commercial and industrial areas. Without meeting this legal prerequisite, you cannot sell or rent a property here.
In this blog, we will discuss the EPC requirements in Stoke and outline the exemptions, helping property owners understand whether these rules apply to them or not.
Who Needs an EPC in Stoke?
It is essential to note that, according to the regulation, every private landlord or property seller who owns a private, residential, or commercial property must comply with the EPC requirement, except for a few exempted cases, which are discussed below. Moreover, a few things that you must know about EPC in Stoke are:
- EPC is valid for only 10 years, and it must be renewed thereafter.
- The minimum EPC rating threshold is E, which your property must meet in order to be sold or rented.
- You can improve the EPC rating by making the required changes to improve overall energy efficiency.
- It is the responsibility of property owners to provide a valid EPC to tenants.
- EPC assessment rates vary depending on the size, type, location and other factors.
Understanding EPC Exemptions in Stoke
However, there are a few circumstances in which a property is exempted from the legal obligation of EPC, which also applies to Stoke:
- Listed Buildings
The buildings which are officially protected or listed are sometimes exempted from the EPC requirement. This mostly happens in those cases where energy performance improvement can result in altering its appearance. However, owners mostly get an EPC assessment done to confirm if this exemption applies to their property or not.
- Places of Worship
According to the law, places of worship, such as churches, mosques, or temples, are exempt from needing an EPC in Stoke. The reason is that these buildings are primarily used for worship, and not for rent or sale, so energy performance requirements do not apply to them.
- Small Standalone Unit
If a property is just a small area under 50 m², like a garage, it is exempt from EPC rules. However, this exemption is mainly for the commercial buildings with small floor areas or workshops.
- Temporary Structures
If a building is constructed solely for use over a short period (less than 2 years), it generally does not require an Energy Performance Certificate. This exemption typically applies to temporary construction sites, portable cabins, or temporary event halls used for short-term purposes.
- Buildings Due for Demolition
A building that is to be demolished or redeveloped may be exempt from this EPC requirement; however, this exemption doesn’t apply to all cases.
- Industrial Site or Workshop
Any industrial or non-residential agricultural building where the use of energy (heating, cooling, lighting) is negligible does not need to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate.
If you’re feeling uncertain about EPC exemptions, legal obligations, or the process of booking an assessment, we’re here to guide you. The procedure may seem daunting at first, but with the proper support, it’s pretty quick and straightforward. At EPC Yorkshire, we are committed to simplifying every step for you, giving you clear advice and fair assessments.
Choose EPC Yorkshire for Your Certificate in Stoke
If you’re unsure where to look for accredited assessors for EPC in Stoke, find the process confusing, or worry about your property’s rating, choosing EPC Yorkshire can make all the difference. Our qualified and certified assessors with local expertise carry out detailed energy efficiency assessments across Stoke. Our clear communication and complete transparency sets us apart from other assessors. We keep you informed every step of the way and ensure your property is assessed fairly and accurately.
Ready to book your EPC appointment? Get in touch today and get a rating you can trust!