Latest news with #HelenRVMorris

Telegraph

Expensive and inconsistent EPCs are hammering Britain's housing market

SIR – I recently had to update an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) on a flat I rent out. The last time I did this the flat received a 'D' rating. Since then, I have installed a new gas boiler and loft insulation, and have had an outside wall insulated, too. The assessor still awarded it a 'D' grade. When I challenged him, he advised me to prove the depth of both wall and loft insulation. To do this, we had to drill a small hole in the wall to assess the exact thickness, and climb into the loft to take photographs, as his form indicated he'd 'assumed no insulation'. With this proof, he upgraded the property to a 'C'. There also seems to be a lack of logic when scoring electric or gas heating, with high heat retention storage heaters (which are quite inefficient) contributing to a higher grade. These certificates have an inconsistent basis: the assessors are given only basic training and have limited knowledge. The 2030 requirement of 'C' ratings for rental properties will drive landlords out of business and create a huge shortage of rental homes. Helen R V Morris Lowestoft, Suffolk SIR – The EPC surveyor who looked at our father's house refused to go into the loft by the sturdy pull-down ladder. He therefore listed it as being without cavity wall insulation, despite such insulation being clearly visible when standing in the loft. Recently bereaved, the idea of pursuing legal action for his blatant failure to provide a service with reasonable skill and care was more distress than we could face. But we now regard all EPCs as likely to be similarly valueless unless carried out by an experienced person in the building trade with relevant qualifications. Deborah Tompkinson Maidenhead, Berkshire SIR – A few years ago we installed an air-source heat pump at our Victorian property – something the local council had heavily promoted. The cost has been prohibitive, with many breakdowns ensuing. Two weeks ago the heat pump failed. The technician informs us that mice have eaten the wiring. He suggests renewing the pump at a cost of £6,000. We think we should revert to oil. Elizabeth Barclay Kings Lynn, Norfolk