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Brokers urged to remind clients of energy performance certificates
Brokers have been urged to encourage their clients to check the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating on the property they are buying.
The certificate gives a property an energy efficiency rating from A as the most efficient to G as the least and is valid for 10 years.
A higher EPC rating that shows a property has good insulation and glazing for example, which will help keep houses cooler in hot weather and warmer during colder weather.
Information about a property’s energy use and typical energy costs, as well as recommendations about how to reduce energy use and save money are also included in the EPC.
Ratings on properties could become more important over the coming years, according to Jeremy Duncombe, director of intermediary distribution at Accord Mortgages.
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He said: “For brokers advising anyone currently considering moving, the warm weather and the potential desire for a cooler home is a timely reminder of the importance of checking the energy efficiency of the property they want to purchase.
“We know that buying a house involves a multitude of decisions and sometimes things like the EPC rating can drop down the list of priorities for a move.
“However, as the UK’s climate becomes more unpredictable the ratings on properties could become more important, which is an opportunity for brokers to add value to conversations with their customers.”