Tag: Switch

Which energy suppliers have already gone bust?

In the past few weeks, a few energy companies have gone bust. More are expected to go out of business in the coming weeks. Therefore, the table below will be updated daily.

Will your energy supplier go bust?

At the beginning of this year, there were 70 energy suppliers in the UK. With the ongoing crisis, industry sources predict that by the end of 2021, the UK might be left with just 10 suppliers.
Until now we see smaller companies going bust first, because it is hard for them to cope with the record high wholesale gas prices.

More suppliers might go bust in the coming weeks. Bigger providers are also not out of risk. In fact, the 6th biggest provider, Bulb, has announced that it is seeking a bailout. The are hoping to get financial help from an investment bank in order to stabilise and survive the market crisis

If your current provider is a smaller one, you might be thinking that it is at a huge risk and will most likely go out of business. However, nothing can be confirmed yet as the situation is changing daily. It is best to follow the news and stay informed.

The table below shows the level of risk for active suppliers to go bust due to the energy crisis. The suppliers in with low risk are the biggest companies on the market and are therefore the most stable. The biggest portion of suppliers falls into the moderate risk group. At the moment only four are considered to be at high risk.
The table will be updated constantly.

What if your energy supplier goes bust?

In the case of your supplier going bust, Ofgem will still provide your home with electricity and gas. In the meantime, they will select and transfer you to a new supplier. At this point, you don't need to do anything, but wait to be contacted with further information. While you wait, you can take a meter reading and a note of your account balance for future reference.

You are in credit

The newly appointed supplier will have to pay back the remaining credit that is left from your previous supplier. When you are transferred to the new supplier, they will contact you with instructions. If you have consumed energy but you have not been paid for it yet, they will deduct it from your account.

You are in debt

If you are in debt to your previous supplier, it depends on the agreement between the new and the old supplier, to which of the two you should pay it back.

If the new supplier decides to take care of the customer debts, then you can pay your debt to them. Otherwise, you will have to pay it back to your previous supplier or their administration. In any case, you will receive information about this process by the new supplier.

What if you use a smart meter?

Although it is unlikely, you might be transferred to a supplier that does not operate with smart meter. If you have used one with your old supplier, then the smart meter will be used as a traditional one and the readings will be taken manually.

What tariff will you be switched to?

If your supplier goes out of business it means that your contract with them will be terminated. Ofgem will try to find a good deal for you and transfer you to another supplier of their choice.
With the new supplier you will be put on a deemed contract. This contract can be more expensive than your old one. If you are not positive about the new price, you can shop around and look for cheaper deals from other suppliers or contact your new supplier and ask for a better tariff.

What about switching your supplier?

Energy bills will go up and you might find it hard to cope with the prices. Therefore, you should always be open minded about switching to a better supplier and looking for the cheapest electricity and the cheapest gas tariffs. We at Papernest are here to help you find the best supplier for you and make the switch.

Should you switch to a bigger supplier?

If you are currently on a contract with a smaller energy supplier, you might be wondering if you should quickly switch to a bigger supplier. It is true that smaller suppliers face bigger struggles during the crisis as they have less financial resources, political back-up and therefore it is harder for them to sustain their business and keep running. However, all suppliers, including the bigger ones, are currently experiencing big disruption and financial instability.

If you are with a smaller supplier, we would recommend staying with them for the time being, as it is still not clear which suppliers will go bust. It is best to wait and see how the situation on the energy market will change in the coming days and weeks and then make an informed decision. In case your supplier does go bust, you will be automatically transferred to a bigger provider by Ofgem.

When can I switch to another supplier?

If you are transferred to a new supplier because your previous one went out of business and you are not happy with the new tariff, you can always be on the look for another provider. However, you can switch suppliers after the transfer to the supplier appointed by Ofgem is completed.

What can the government do to help?

The secretary of State for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy, Kwasi Kwarteng, confidently addressed the house of commons on September 20th to ensure there would be no supply issues:
”Firstly, I must stress that protecting consumers is our number one, the primary focus and will shape our entire approach to this important issue. Secondly, I want also to reassure the House that while the UK like other countries in Europe has been affected by global prices, Britain benefits from having a diverse range of gas supply sources.”

“We have sufficient capacity and more than sufficient capacity to meet demand and we do not expect supply emergencies to occur this winter. There’s absolutely no question of the lights going out or people being unable to heat their homes. There will not be three-day working weeks or throwback to the 1970s. Such thinking is unhelpful and completely misguided.”

“In any scenario, we will ensure UK consumers have continuity of supply through a Supplier of Last Resort or a special administrator if needed.”

Kwasi Kwarteng reassured that the government will do everything possible to make the move of customers to their new suppliers go without any inconveniences for them. He also shared that at this moment they are not planning to drop the Energy Price Cap, as the government is certain that this is the only way to protect customers from the ongoing energy price increase.

In order to support eligible companies in need and to help them survive the crisis, the UK government is going to offer bailout loans. However, these loans will be available only for companies that meet specific requirements.

At the same time, bigger suppliers are struggling to cope with the expenses of incoming new clients that are being transferred to them from the failed suppliers. They have asked for the formation of “bad banks”, backed-up by the government to cover the costs for the new customers.

What are the reasons for the energy market crisis?

Many things are to blame for the huge energy crisis that has caused so much disruptions in the UK for businesses and customers. Although globally there is an increased demand for gas and increased energy prices, the UK has been hit particularly hard. The wholesale prices of gas have increased by 250% since January, and with a 70% rise since August.

*the graph is sourced from Bloomberg

What has caused the record high gas prices?

As economies start to recover and restart after Covid lockdowns, there is a global surge in demand for gas, including the UK. Additionally, the UK had nicer weather in the past few weeks, which negatively affected the wind power industry, which accounts for 20% of the electricity in the country. Due to this, there has been an even higher need for natural gas to produce electricity. At the same time, Europe has been faced with lower supply of natural gas from Russia, as China has been a priority destination for them.

Is Russia to blame?

During the long winter, there has been a lower supply of natural gas from Russia to Western Europe, which has failed to meet the increasing demand. Russia’s state-backed monopoly gas exporter, Gazprom, has managed to complete its long-term supply contracts but has not offered a top up option, which has caused deficiency of gas throughout Europe. In fact, Gazprom has been focused on supplying Asia, and mostly China, which has shown huge demand for energy post lockdowns. In fact, the CEO of Russia’s Gazprom, Alexei Miller, shared that “the Asian market is more attractive for producers and investors”. This is very worrying for Europe, as it relies on Russia for a big part of its gas supply and could disturb the energy market even further.

What about Brexit?

Back in 2016, the government promised to reduce gas prices after Brexit and lower the energy bills by cutting the VAT on them. Fast forward to now, the gas prices have been surging, the VAT has not been removed and customers are about to face one of their hardest and most expensive winters when it comes to energy bills. Although energy prices have been very high in Europe, the countries in the European Union have the means to balance the energy prices across the union.

What are the consequences?

The real result from the crisis is yet to be seen. The crisis has caused the closure of many businesses in the energy sector, big problems in the food manufacturing and supply industry, and shortage of fuel in petrol stations.

The UK energy crisis has already led to not only suppliers going bust and struggling to keep up with increasing gas prices, but also to production issues in the food sector. The real consequences of the crisis are yet to be seen in the coming weeks and months.

Will the Energy Price Cap be increased?

The Energy Price Cap was designed by Ofgem to set a maximum tariff that energy providers can charge their customers, and therefore protect customers from overpaying for energy bills.

In August this year, the Energy Price Cap was reviewed and Ofgem announced that from the 1st of October the Cap will be increased, causing a 12% rise in energy bills. Customers on default plans would face an increase of £139 vs the previous cap, going from £1,138 to £1,277, while customers on prepaid plans will experience an increase in the price cap of £153, going from £1,156 to £1,309.

Under normal circumstances, the next review of the Price Cap should be in February 2022. However, due to the increasing wholesale gas prices, the government is under pressure to lift the Cap and let energy providers raise their tariffs even more. So far, the government has been hesitant to do this as the Cap is the way to protect customers from overpaying.

Will the energy market become oligopolistic?

Seven smaller energy companies have already gone bust in just a couple of weeks, while bigger and more stable providers have been appointed to take on their customers. This raises the question whether the UK energy market will lose its competitiveness and will move back to being oligopolistic, where just a few providers dictate the prices. The secretary for business, Kwasi Kwarteng, shared that the government wants to support energy companies with state backed loans, and thus keep the market competitive and diverse.

Is there going to be a domino effect?

Other effects from the crisis are already in place. There has been a huge shortage of carbon dioxide caused by the closure of energy intensive fertiliser producers who cannot sustain the high gas prices.

Carbon dioxide is used by food manufacturers to stun animals prior to slaughter and to keep food fresh for storage, increase the shelf-life, and ensure the safe transportation to supermarkets. As a result, the food industry is facing a problem with the production of food products and the supply of supermarkets, which could lead to shortage and empty shelves. The chief executive of the British Meat Processors Association warned that consumers might not be able to find meat products in supermarkets in the coming weeks. CO2 is also used for poultry and fizzy drinks, which could soon be hard to find too.

How much is it to have your boiler serviced?

The cost of an annual boiler service in the UK is normally between £70-£90. However, some large, national firms charge up to £135 for the service.
This price includes the cost of thoroughly inspecting the appliance and cleaning out your magnetic filter system if you have one. If you want to get better value from your boiler service, bundle a few different appliances into the same inspection.
For example, if you have your gas hob, gas fire and boiler looked at together, it should cost you between £100-£125 in total. Combining inspections also helps to keep admin to a minimum and ensures all of your appliances are in good working order.
The cost of a service will vary depending on your location and on the company you choose. For the best deal, get a few different quotes and look for an independent engineer in your local area.
It’s important to remember that all boiler services should be carried out by fully qualified Gas Safe engineers. Gas Safe engineers are trained to work on boilers and other gas-powered appliances and so know how to inspect and repair these items safely.

How often should my boiler be serviced?

Ideally, you should have your boiler serviced every 12 months. In fact, many boiler manufacturers won’t honour the appliance’s warranty unless it has been serviced annually by a qualified and registered engineer.
So, if you’ve bought your boiler relatively recently, it’s important to get the appliance serviced, and keep a record of these inspections, so you can prove it’s been properly cared for. Most boiler warranties last between 2 and 5 years, although some companies offer cover for up to 10 years.
Getting your boiler serviced every year should help to prevent serious problems from developing. It will also ensure that the appliance is working efficiently and is safe to use.

What is the average lifespan of a boiler?

The average lifespan of a boiler is between 10 and 15 years. In general, the better maintained the appliance is, the longer it will last.
When you buy a new boiler, make sure that you keep the paperwork somewhere safe so that it’s easy to find in case of a breakdown. Having your paperwork to hand will also help you keep track of the boiler’s age and make it easier to claim in the warranty if something goes wrong.

Boiler service checklist

When having your boiler serviced, it can be useful to know what the engineer is checking for. A typical boiler service checklist will include:

• Visual inspection

The first part of any boiler service is the visual inspection. The engineer will look at the boiler to see if it’s clean and adjust components as necessary. They will also look for any signs of damage and check for any obvious defects.

• Operation and control

Every boiler has a number of in-built controls and safety devices. During a boiler service, these will be tested for correct operation. The engineer will also check that all of the boiler’s functions are working correctly.

• Flue and combustion releases

Flues are a very important part of a boiler’s infrastructure. They help toxic gasses to escape quickly and easily and make it safe for domestic use. A faulty flue can cause serious issues, so it’s essential engineers check the flue as part of a boiler service.
The engineer will check the construction, termination and route of the flue. They will make sure there are no obstructions in the flue and check that it has been correctly fitted.

• Clean the main boiler components

During your boiler service, the engineer will remove, inspect and clean the main components in the boiler to ensure they are fit for purpose and have no obvious defects. Generally, this clean will include the main burner, heat exchanger, flue ways and ignition pins.

• Safety checks

The engineer will carry out a number of checks during the inspection to ensure the boiler is safe to use. These include checking whether the flame sense device operates correctly, checking the pilot burner, high-limit thermostat and heating controls and ensuring there is enough provision for ventilation.
The engineer will inspect the electrical wiring connections, the gas pressure and flow and the seals. They will also ensure all relevant safety devices are in working order and check the area around the boiler for combustible materials.

• Make a record

It’s very important to create a detailed record of a boiler service and to keep this record safe. During the inspection, the boiler engineer will take a note of all tests carried out and of the results of these tests. You’ll need this information for future inspections and it can also come in handy if the boiler develops problems in the future.

• Ensure the boiler is ready for use

The last thing your engineer will do is make sure your boiler is ready for use. Any controls or settings that were altered during the inspection should be put back to where you had them or left so that they can easily be adjusted.

Are boiler covers worth getting?

Boiler repairs can be expensive. In many cases, even minor fixes can cost over £150. If something more serious goes wrong, your bill could soon add up to hundreds.
As a result, a lot of homeowners and landlords opt to take out boiler cover. Boiler cover is a specific type of home insurance that covers this all important appliance.
If you take out a boiler cover policy, you’ll pay a monthly or annual premium to your supplier. If your boiler breaks down, they will cover the cost of repair, minus any excess agreed in your deal. This can make boiler repairs a lot more affordable and help to protect your finances in case of an emergency.

What does boiler cover include?

All boiler cover policies should cover the cost of calling out an engineer to your property in the event your appliance breaks down. Most will also cover the cost of repairs, including parts and labour. However, some policies will ask you to pay an excess every time you make a claim.
As well as basic policies that just cover your boiler, there are also deals that include your wider central heating system and even your home’s electrical wiring. To help you work out which type of boiler cover is right for you, we’re taking a look at the different options available.

The different types of cover explained

There are three different categories of boiler cover: boiler only cover, boiler and central heating cover and fully comprehensive cover. All types of boiler cover should give you access to fully qualified Gas Safe engineers. Most will also offer a 24/7 helpline that you can call in the event of an emergency.
Boiler only cover will pay out if something goes with the appliance itself. These types of policies are generally the most affordable with a number available from just £2.50 per month.
Boiler and central heating cover allows you to make claims if something goes wrong with any part of your heating system. So if one of the pipes that feeds your boiler breaks or your radiators start leaking, you can call out a registered engineer and get the problem fixed fast.
These policies are also very affordable. Prices start from around £2.50 per month and go up to around £24 per month.
Fully comprehensive policies cover your boiler, central heating system and electrical wiring. This will provide you with fast access to qualified engineers and electricians and give you peace of mind that your finances are protected if something goes wrong.
These fully comprehensive policies range between £7 and £25 per month.

Which is cheaper: one-off service or boiler cover?

A lot of boiler cover policies offer an annual boiler service as part of the deal. In some cases, it can be more affordable to take out a boiler cover policy that includes an annual service than to pay for a one-off inspection.
As an annual service costs between £70 and £90, a policy that includes a service and is less than £5.80 per month will be more affordable than a one-off inspection. If you’re worried about the cost of boiler cover, this can be a good way to balance your finances and ensure that you’re getting good value for money.

Gas safety checks

Gas safety checks should be carried out regularly on all gas-fired appliances. Ideally, they should be don’t every 12 months to ensure the appliance is kept in good working order.
Gas safety checks should always be done by fully qualified Gas Safe engineers. This will ensure that they’re carried out properly and that the appliances are safe to use.

Landlords gas safety certificate

If you’re a landlord, you’re required to have gas safety checks completed every 12 months. On completion of the checks, you should be issued with a gas safety certificate. This will show that the appliances in your property have been checked and are safe for tenants to use.

Would you like to know more about boiler cover? Great! Check out these related articles:

1. Compare boiler cover
2. Boiler cover reviews

Is pay as you go electricity more expensive?

By and large, pay as you go electricity tariffs are a little more expensive than their counterparts that enable energy consumers to pay by direct debit. After all, direct debits are more advantageous to energy companies. Because they ensure a certain income for each customer, they can improve energy companies’ cash flow and insulate their (usually wafer-thin) profit margins.

That said, it’s all about finding the right energy tariff. The Papernest team may well be able to find you a pay as you go energy tariff that actually offers better value for money than what you’re paying right now.

But for us to help you decide whether pay as you go electricity is right for you, we need to start at the very beginning.

What is pay as you go electricity tariff?

A pay as you go electricity tariff is a tariff that’s designed with the specific needs of prepayment customers in mind. These kinds of prepayment tariffs have their own energy price cap, and there are several suppliers (like Boost Power) that specialise in pay as you go energy tariffs.

How does pay as you go electric work?

When you have a pay as you go electric meter, you are issued a smart card or key that you insert into your meter. This meter can be taken to your local Post Office or your nearest PayZone store to be topped up with credit. You may add a maximum of £50 credit in any one transaction, and your electricity meter will typically hold a maximum amount of £250 in credit.

As well as paying in-store, you will also be able to pay online with your credit or debit card, wither via your customer portal on your supplier’s website, or through their mobile app. Many suppliers will also allow you to top up over the phone.

If you are unable to top up, and you run out of credit, your supplier will allow you to activate emergency credit (usually around £10) to prevent you from being (quite literally) left in the dark.

Why chose a pay as you go electricity tariff?

There are many reasons why you may choose a pay as you go meter and tariff. Many energy consumers feel that it helps them to feel more in control of their energy spend. Those who have previously run up high electricity bills benefit from the fact that energy spending is capped on a pay as you go plan.

Energy consumers who have been stung by electricity tariffs with inaccurate direct debits based on estimated usage may also gravitate towards pay as you go electricity. Although rates are generally a little higher, you know that you’ll only ever pay for the energy you use.

What are the pros and cons of a pay as you go electricity tariff?

Just like any electricity tariff, a pay as you go tariff comes with its own set of pros and cons. At Papernest, we’re committed to helping energy consumers just like you to make the right informed choice for their households.

With that in mind, we hope that you’ll find the table below useful. Here we’ve compiled the inherent pros and cons of a pay as you go electricity tariff:

Who is a pay as you go suitable for?

Pay as you go is best suited to energy consumers who have previously run up large bills or feel like they have lost control of their energy spending. Although going through the process of topping up your energy meter isn’t for everyone, it can be a great way to feel more in control of your energy spending.

What is the best pay as you go electricity plan?

It’s very difficult to definitively state which is the best pay as you go electricity plan at the moment. There are so many variables at play. Where you live, and how much energy you consume can affect which tariff is the best fit for your needs.

That’s why the Papernest team strives to find and deliver the best pay as you go energy tariffs for your needs, circumstances and location.

However, if we go off UK average energy rates and assume median average consumption of 2,900 kWh of electricity and 12,000 kWh of gas per year, one the best pay as you go electricity plans at the moment is Omni Energy’s Omni Prepayment Variable. This comes to an estimated £984 per year, falling below the current Ofgem Energy Price Cap of £1,042 per year (expected to rise to £1,140 in April 2020). This is rare for a prepayment tariff.

How to switch to / from a pay as you go electricity meter?

If you decide that you want to switch to a pay as you go meter, most suppliers will be able to do this free of charge. Indeed, many energy suppliers move customers to prepayment meters if they are having trouble paying their bills. The best way to switch to a pay as you get in touch with your energy supplier and see if they would be able to replace your existing credit meter with a prepayment meter. Most suppliers will be able to facilitate this for you, although some smaller suppliers may not support prepayment meters.

If your supplier is able to offer you a prepayment meter, it is likely to be under the following conditions:

• You have access to your meter 24 hours a day.
• Your meter is not above head height
• There are no issues that would prevent you from topping up when needed

Does it cost to change from a pay as you go meter?

Changing from a prepayment meter to a credit meter is a little more complicated. According to Citizens Advice, most energy suppliers (including the "Big 6") will be able to replace your prepayment meter with a conventional credit meter (or a smart meter) without charge.

The only caveat is that they will likely run a credit check to ensure that you do not have any outstanding energy debts. If you’d prefer that they not carry out a credit check, they may forego this if you can pay a deposit to cover your future energy usage.

Your supplier will base the amount of your deposit on the energy consumption of households similar to yours over the space of 3 months. Typically this will be between £150 and £300.

I've just moved to a house with a pay as you go meter - what should I do?

If you’ve moved to a home with a pay as you go electricity meter, the first thing you should do is find out who supplies energy to the property, and let them know that you have moved in. We’d advise against using the previous occupant’s smart card or key before you speak to your supplier. This is because the previous occupant may have racked up a debt with the supplier for which you absolutely don’t want to be liable.

Your supplier will be able to explain how to top up your energy meter and send you a new card or key of your own. In the meantime, you will be able to top up your meter online, in-app, or over the phone. As soon as your new card arrives, insert it into the meter to activate it. Once you’ve done this, you can top it up at any Payzone location or Post Office whenever you like.

How to top up your pay as you go plan?

Managing your energy account is easy when you have a pay as you go energy plan. You just need to keep topping up your energy as and when you need it. Of course, this means that you’ll need to learn how to top up your meter.

How do you top up a prepayment meter?

There are 3 days to top up your prepayment meter:

• Top up in-person by taking your key to your Post Office or any PayZone location
• Top up over the phone (your supplier will likely have a 24-hour automated line for this)
• Top up online via your supplier’s website or mobile app

What about Smart pay as you go meters?

You’ve almost certainly heard about the smart meter rollout. The government and energy suppliers are working together to make smart meters available to all domestic and commercial energy consumers by 2025.

But did you know that you can also get a smart pay as you go meter?

These come with an In-Home Display Unit (IHDU) that allows you to better track your energy consumption, showing you what you spend as you spend it. If you’re taking steps to reduce your energy consumption, this will allow you to track the effects of your energy-saving measures in real-time.

Your supplier may be able to replace your pay as you go electricity meter with a smart prepayment meter. You will not be charged for this, but it can help you assert even more control over your energy spend.

What if you lose your prepayment meter key or smart card?

If you lose your smart card or key, alert your energy supplier as soon as possible. They will be able to send you a new one. While you’re waiting, you will still be able to top up your account online and over the phone.

Let the Papernest team find the perfect pay as you go electricity tariff for you!

Although a pay as you go electricity tariff can be more expensive, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t save money with a prepayment meter. It’s simply a case of finding the right tariff for you!

The Papernest team can search through dozens of pay as you go tariffs from a huge range of suppliers (including prepayment specialists). Call us today on 0330 818 6225 to see how much you could save.

We’re available from 8am to 6pm.

Would you like to know more about your energy tariffs? Great! Check out these related articles

1. Fixed or variable energy tariff
2. Variable energy tariff
3. Dual-fuel
4. Economy 7

Who is the energy ombudsman?

The energy ombudsman is less of a "who" than a "what"/ It is not a job title. It is a regulatory body that protects the interests of energy consumers. It works with energy companies and the energy watchdog Ofgem to help consumers to achieve a satisfactory resolution where the energy company has proven unable to do this internally.

The energy ombudsman service was founded in 2002 to give customers a place where they could go to week independent resolution when they have an issue with their suppliers.

The energy sector isn’t the only industry that’s protected by the ombudsman service. It also covers a range of other sectors, such as communications and consumer finance.

If you have a dispute with your supplier and have given them an opportunity to resolve it on their own, yet they have failed to do so within 8 weeks, the energy ombudsman is your best option to get the resolution you need. In a nutshell, they aim to get you in the same position you were in before you needed to complain.

To date, the energy ombudsman service has resolved over 1.3 million complaints, and over 2,000 businesses have signed up to its service. 91,678 complaints have been resolved across 500 energy companies since 2017 alone.

Their service is completely free and impartial.

Energy ombudsman contact number

It can be extremely frustrating when you have a dispute with your energy supplier and they appear to be unable or unwilling to resolve it to your satisfaction. However, the energy ombudsman is only a phone call away.

You can call them on 0330 440 1624 to make a complaint or ask any questions you may have about the process and how they can help. Of course, we in the Papernest team will do our best to answer any questions you may have here first.

Phone lines are open Monday to Friday 8am until 8pm and Saturday 9am until 1pm. The ombudsman’s phone lines are closed on Sunday and Bank Holidays.

Alternatively, you can submit a complaint or make an enquiry via email at enquiry@ombudsman-services.org. If you prefer to send a complaint in the post, you can send it to:

Ombudsman Services: Energy
P.O. Box 966
Warrington

WA4 9DF

Energy ombudsman login

You can also submit a complaint via the Ombudsman’s website. You’ll be invited to create an account. Once you have done this you will be able to check on the status of your complaint. You can login or create a new account by clicking here.

Are there energy ombudsman reviews?

The energy ombudsman is a non-profit organisation, not a private company. Nonetheless, you can still see reviews from energy consumers that have used the service via Trustpilot. Be advises, however, that the site lumps communications and energy ombudsman services into the same page, so make sure that the reviews you read pertain to energy.

What can the energy ombudsman do?

We’ve looked at the function of the energy ombudsman and how to get in touch with them. But what exactly can they do to help when you have an issue with your energy supplier?

The energy ombudsman’s primary job is to resolve the complaints of energy consumers. But they also work with energy companies, to ensure that they can deliver the best possible standard of service to their customers.

Because they are in a unique position to understand common customer complaints and disputes, their insights are invaluable to energy companies that are passionate about improving their standard of customer service.

Possible resolutions

There are a number of possible resolutions that the energy ombudsman may be able to help you reach with your energy supplier.

These may include:

• A formal apology
• An explanation of what went wrong and why
• Specific action to correct your problem.
• A financial award (subject to a £10,000 limit).
• Recommendations to your energy supplier that will avoid similar problems happening to you and other energy consumers.

Energy ombudsman and water

Issues with the water provider in your area are generally referred to the Consumer Council for Water. However, if this body is not able to resolve your complaint to your satisfaction, the energy ombudsman may be able to intervene on your behalf.

The process of submitting a complaint to energy ombudsman

There is a specific procedure that you’ll need to adhere to when making a complain to the energy ombudsman. They have a set of rules that decide which complaints they can and cannot accept for review. The first thing they’ll do is use these rules to assess your complaint to see whether or not they can help.

Adhering to the right procedure can ensure that your complaint is dealt with effectively.

When you can complain

It’s important to note that you cannot forward your complaint until you have first tried to resolve your issue with your energy supplier directly. You need to submit a formal complaint to your supplier. This must include your name, address, customer reference number and a description of the issue.

You should give your supplier 8 weeks to resolve this issue to your satisfaction. You can only refer the matter to the energy ombudsman if they have failed to resolve your issue within this timeframe.

You must complain to the ombudsman within 12 months of your supplier notifying with you of a decision that you are not happy with.

How to complain

Once 8 weeks have elapsed, you can then log your complaint with the ombudsman service. This can be made over the phone, via email, in writing, or by creating an account on the ombudsman’s website.

You will be invited to submit evidence to support your claim.

Within this time, your supplier may send you what is known as a "deadlock letter". This normally contains a final offer and the ombudsman’s details. If you decide that this offer is not satisfactory, you can contact the ombudsman.

Before you make a complaint

Before submitting your complaint, it’s important to ensure that you have as much evidence to support your complaint as possible. This will help the ombudsman to understand the extent of the issue and help you achieve a satisfactory resolution faster.

This might include:

• Dates when the issue was first noticed and when the complaint was made to the supplier
• Copies of any emails and letters or details of phone calls. Mention dates, times and the names of customer service / management staff that you spoke to.
• Any other evidence that you feel might help to illustrate the nature of your complaint.

Making the complaint

Once you’ve made your complaint, the ombudsman will make a full assessment of the case. Provided, of course, that it’s the kind of case they can help with. More on that later. The ombudsman has to help make a fair and reasonable decision. In order to do this, they will look at:

• Your and your supplier’s sides of the story.
• Any relevant regulations or laws.
• The accepted parameters of good industry practice.

There is no set time for this assessment, and complex cases may take longer to resolve.

Resolving the complaint

The ombudsman will then contact you and your supplier with a proposed resolution. If you accept this resolution, your supplier is obliged to comply with it.

What if you’re not happy with the ombudsman’s decision?

If you reject the ombudsman’s final decision regarding a resolution, you may have to direct your complaint elsewhere. For instance, you may need to go through the civil courts (such as small claims court).

What is Ofgem’s role in gas and electricity complaints?

The energy ombudsman is not a regulator or watchdog. However, it does work with the energy watchdog Ofgem to ensure that they provide a fair and effective service for energy consumers.

When can Ofgem get involved?

Ofgem doesn’t get directly involved in energy complaints. It defers all matters pertaining to customer complaints to the energy ombudsman. However, it does collect information from a wide variety of sources, monitoring the energy market closely to ensure that suppliers comply with the law and industry regulations. Where suppliers fail to do this, Ofgem takes direct action against them.

They also publish data to help energy consumers to see who is and isn’t compliant.

What’s more, the Papernest team can also help you avoid getting into a situation where you need to complain by recommending a supplier that combines great rates with outstanding customer service.

Common complaints in the energy sector

You may wonder whether your complaint warrants escalation to the energy ombudsman, or whether other energy consumers also have the same issues. Here we’ll look at some common complaints within the industry, and whether or not they can be escalated to the energy ombudsman.

Common questions about complaining about your energy supplier

When it comes to making a complaint to or about your energy supplier, they broadly fall into two camps:

What complaints can the ombudsman handle?

The energy ombudsman typically handles complaints pertaining to:

• Bills and payments
• Poor customer service and inability to action requests
• Issues when switching suppliers such as delays or unexpected fees
• Meter installation problems or delays
• Mis-sold products and plans or unrequested renewals

What complaints can’t the ombudsman handle?

There are specific complaints that the ombudsman’s service can’t review pertaining to things like Feed in Tariffs, the Green Deal or District Heating.

Let’s take a closer look.

Which feed in tariff complaints can the ombudsman review?

The ombudsman doesn’t typically get involved with complaints about Feed in Tariffs or renewable installations. The Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) and Ofgem share responsibility for these. Because energy suppliers are not directly involved on FiT applications, the ombudsman cannot intervene.

Complaints about the Green Deal

The Green Deal is a government initiative to help people make green energy installations at home, find the best way to pay for them and (in some cases) mitigate the cost with grants like the Green Homes Grant.

The ombudsman has been appointed to look into complaints about the Green Deal under the following circumstances:

• A complaint with a Green Deal provider has not been resolved after 8 weeks.
• A provider has not acknowledge the complaint or consumers are unable to register a complaint.
• A seller or landlord has failed to disclose key information about a Green Deal plan.

However, they cannot resolve complaints where:

• The issue is with consumer credit (this needs to be resolved by the financial services ombudsman).
• The complaint would be better handled by Ofgem.
• The issue is with an installation and needs to be addressed by the Trading Standards body.
• Complaints where the Green Deal provider has gone out of business.

Complaints about District Heating

District Heating (or Communal Heating) is an alternative to using natural gas to heat your home. Contracts are set up between District Heating providers and housing associations and property developers.

The ombudsman service can investigate and mediate when District Heating customers have issues with the provider / energy supplier in question. These include:

• E.ON Energy Solutions Ltd.
• SSE Heat Networks Ltd.
• Metropolitan King’s Cross (95 degrees).
• Metropolitan Infrastructure Ltd.
• East London Energy Ltd (Engie).
• Switch2 Energy Ltd.
• The Paintworks ESCO Ltd (Vital Energi).
• Energetik (Lee Valley Heat Network Operating Company Ltd).
• Loka Energy Ltd.
• Engie Urban Energy Ltd.
• Highland Bioheat Ltd.
• Veolia
• ICHL (Independent Community Heating Ltd)

The ombudsman can help with any complaints pertaining to:

• Bills and payments
• Substandard customer service
• Substandard or delayed installations
• Loss of service

How the Papernest team can help

The energy ombudsman’s service can be very useful when you have an issue with your energy supplier. But, needless to say, the easiest way to avoid needing to rely on their service is to choose the right supplier in the first place. The Papernest team can not only help you to find the best value tariff for your needs and usage, we can also help you to find an energy supplier with an impeccable reputation or customer service.

What’s more, we can even manage your switch for you from end-to-end, so you can enjoy cheaper energy and better service sooner and 100% hassle-free.

Call our experts today on 0330 818 6225.

We’re available from 8am to 6pm.

Would you like to know more about the UK energy market? Great! Check out these related articles:

1. National Grid
2. Distribution network operator
3. Gas distribution network
4. Ofgem
Looking to switch energy deals?Leave your phone number to request a call back from us!
Find out more

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Who operates the gas distribution network?

The gas distribution network is actually 8 separate networks. Much like the national electrical grid, the gas grid is too large for any single company to manage effectively, with hundreds upon hundreds of miles of pipework needing to be maintained and upgraded to cope with rising demand.

As such, these 8 networks across the UK are managed by 4 companies. Each taking responsibility for a different region. These are:

• Cadent Gas Ltd
• Northern Gas Networks Limited
• Wales & West Utilities Limited
• SGN

Within the areas covered by these Gas Distribution Networks (GDNs) there are a number of smaller networks which are owned and operated by smaller Independent Gas Transporters (IGTs).

Who is responsible for your gas supply?

That depends on your area. Each GDN is responsible for a different part of the country. This makes each GDN a natural monopoly. This is why the energy watchdog Ofgem works closely with GDNs to ensure that they operate fairly and have reasonable pricing structures.

Energy suppliers pay GDNs to use their networks, and this cost is reflected in energy bills. Of course, the Papernest team are always on hand to ensure that you get the best possible value for money with your gas and energy tariff.

Gas distribution network operators

Just as the UK electricity grid relies on Distribution Network Operators to maintain the network in each region, so too does the gas network rely on the companies mentioned above to keep the grid fit for purpose.

These companies also have some customer-facing responsibilities. While most energy consumers will never interact with their GDN, you may need to contact yours if you:

• Experience an issue with your supply
• Need to set up a new connection to the gas network
• Move an existing connection or meter
• Need to "dial before you dig" to ensure that building work doesn’t impact on a gas main
• Disconnect a property from the network

Gas distribution network in my area

If you have need of any of the services above, you’ll need to contact your local area’s GDN.

But how do you know which network operator / gas transporter / gas shipper (all the same thing) is the right company to contact when you need them. Just refer to the table below! Look for your area and you’ll find the name of your GDN, and their contact number.

What are the gas distribution network charges?

The charges for using the gas distribution network are borne by energy companies. The cost of network charges makes up just over 25% of your gas bill, which is why it’s so important that Ofgem keeps an eye on GDNs to make sure that their charges don’t result in high gas costs for energy consumers.

Can I get a gas supply to my house?

If you contact your GDN to set up a new connection, the cost of this will depend on your area, your property and whether or not you’re prepared to do your own digging. A new gas grid connection will cost anywhere between £300 and £600. The cost of moving a connection may be similar. However, you may be able to mitigate some of this cost by asking your GDN which parts of the work are contested and getting a quote from a registered Gas Safe engineer in your area to see if they can do the work for you.

Gas distribution network map

As we’ve stated previously, the UK is divided into 8 separate GDNs which in turn are divided between 4 companies.

Let’s imagine a map of mainland UK. Who owns which parts of the country? Different companies control different GDNs. And the areas they control aren’t all necessarily close to one another. Let’s take a closer look:

• Cadent Gas Ltd control the West Midlands, North West, East of England and North London
• Northern Gas Networks Limited controls the North East of England, including Yorkshire and Northern Cumbria
• Wales & West Utilities Limited covers all of Wales, as well as South West England.
• SGN covers Scotland and Southern England, including South London.

Who owns the gas network in UK?

The UK gas network is technically part of the National Grid. However, National Grid PLC sold a majority stake in the UK's gas pipe network to a team of investors in 2016. This included the Chinese and Qatari states. So other countries actually own more of our gas network than we do!

How do I know if my gas supply is working?

Households that are new to having a gas connection will need to get an energy supplier to fit a meter in order to make your gas supply useable.

After this has been done, you not be sure of how to tell if your gas connection is on or off. The easiest way to check is to look at the isolation valve. This can be found upstream of your gas meter, and controls the flow of gas to your home.

If it’s in the "on" position, the valve handle will be parallel with the pipe.

How do I know if my gas is off?

If your oven, hob and other gas appliances seem not to be getting a steady flow of gas, the best thing to do is check the isolation valve again. If the valve is in the "off" position, the handle will be at a right angle to the pipe.

What do I do if my gas isn’t working?

That depends on the specific problem you’re having. If your gas meter isn’t working this is your energy supplier’s responsibility. They will need to test it and repair or replace it if necessary. If the problem is with your stove or central heating, you may need to call out a Gas Safe registered engineer in your area.

At Papernest, we thoroughly recommend getting a boiler cover plan to mitigate the potential cost of repairs to your boiler unit or heating apparatus.

How the Papernest team can help

Once your gas connection is up and running, the Papernest team can find the perfect gas supplier and tariff for your needs and budget. We can even find energy plans that use green biomethane gas instead of natural gas, or carbon-offset natural gas to make your supply more renewable.

We can also recommend the perfect boiler, heating and plumbing cover to ensure that you won’t be out of pocket if something goes awry.

Call our experts today on 0330 818 6225.

We’re available from 8am to 6pm.

Would you like to know more about the UK energy market? Great! Check out these related articles:

1. National Grid
2. Distribution network operator
3. Ofgem
Looking to switch energy deals?Leave your phone number to request a call back from us!
Find out more

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What is a Distribution Network Operator?

A Distribution Network Operator or DNO takes care of the National Grid in your area. Beneath your feet and over your head there are hundreds of miles of wires and cables. These are responsible for carrying energy from power stations to transporters where they are reduced to a save voltage for your home, and then on to homes and businesses across the region.

It’s up to your DNO to maintain, upgrade and protect this network of cables to ensure a safe and uninterrupted supply of energy, as well as ensuring that the grid in your area is equipped to cope with growing local demand.

Is National Grid a DNO?

No. National Grid PLC owns and operates the national grid across the country and ensures that different regions have enough power. However, a DNO’s responsibilities are slightly different. They are responsible for ensuring that electricity gets to homes and businesses efficiently and safely.

The National Grid defers to Distribution Network Operators to keep the ageing infrastructure of the grid up to date and ready to tackle the challenges of a growing population that’s more reliant on energy than ever.

EU policy & smart grids

A smart grid is an energy grid with an advanced metering infrastructure, smart distribution boards and circuit breakers, renewable and energy efficient resources, all connected by utility-grade fibre broadband cables.

The smart grid has been dubbed the "internet of energy". In the EU, smart grid policy is organised under the Smart Grid European Technology Platform. Yet, wile we’re no longer part of the EU, we have our own smart grid plans here in the UK.

What is a BNO?

Building Network Operators (BNOs) have the same responsibility as DNOs, just on a smaller scale. They are responsible for ensuring that multiple occupancy buildings such as apartment blocks have a safe and reliable connection to the national grid.

Who is my Distribution Network Operator?

Each area of the UK has its own Distribution Network Operator, and being able to find yours is very important if you have an issue with your energy supply, are building a new home that needs a connection, or need to make an amendment to your existing connection.

How do you find out who your DNO is?

In the table below, you can see an overview of all the UK’s DNOs by region. You’ll also see a contact number. You can refer back to this any time you need to find your local DNO, or have need of their services. We’ll discuss why you may need to contact your DNO shortly.

DNO regions and operators

You can find their DNO and their contact number in the table below:

How to contact my DNO

You can contact your DNO using the phone numbers in the tables above. Alternatively, you can visit your individual’s website and fill out a contact form to request a follow-up email or callback.

When should I contact my DNO?

There are a number of reasons why you may want to contact your DNO. The most common include:

• You’ve just moved into a new property, and don’t know who supplies energy to it. Your DNO can find out your supplier and provide you with your meter’s unique MPAN number. This will be useful when switching energy suppliers.
• You’ve experienced an unexpected power cut. You’ll need to contact your DNO to find out more about the cause of the interruption and claim compensation.
• You’ve moved into a home with no electricity connection or you’re building a new home. Either way, you’ll need to contact your DNO to set up a new connection.
• You need to move your existing grid connection and / or meter.
• You want to disconnect a property from the National Grid.
• You want to feed your own energy into the grid

Does my DNO contribute to green projects?

DNOs share in the responsibility to make our national grid greener and more efficient. Working in conjunction with Ofgem and energy suppliers, they are working to implement a green action plan that will propel the UK energy sector to carbon neutrality by 2050.

What services does my DNO offer?

Whatever DNO is responsible for maintaining the network in your area, they all offer the same range of services to energy consumers...

New connections

If you’re building a new home or want to connect an off-grid property to the national grid, you’ll need to speak to your DNO in order to set up a new connection. The average price of a new domestic connection is around £1,790. Your costs may differ. It all depends on your location, property and DNO.

Moving your connection / meter

If you’re carrying out renovations to your property, you may need to move your meter or connection. A move of around 90cm or less along the same wall can be carried out by your energy supplier. For anything more, however, you’ll need to contact your DNO. It may cost anywhere between £200 and £800 to move your meter.

Interruption of service

Every now and then, your DNO will need to make changes or upgrades to the grid that could cause outages in your area. Your DNO should always notify you in advance of this. However, if you experience an unexpected interruption of service you are entitled to a flat £30 in compensation from your DNO. You may be entitled to additional compensation if the power cut lasts for 12 hours or longer.

How to inject power into the grid

There are many households that use solar panels, domestic wind turbines or micro hydropower systems. As well as powering your home, these can also allow you to feed energy back into the national grid. Your energy supplier will pay you for this energy via the Smart Export Guarantee.

Generate power to the DNO

When connecting your installation to the national grid, you will need to contact your DNO. Although they will not set up this connection, you do need a G59 test certificate that is signed by the testing engineer and a witness from your DNO. They may tell you that it is not necessary for them to witness the connection test (as is often the case with smaller installations). However, they will need to provide a written confirmation of this.

What is the distribution voltage?

Energy from power stations is at too high a voltage for safe use in the home (between 275 and 400 kilovolts). As such, the National Grid uses step-down transformers to lower this to a safe voltage for use (230 volts).

How the Papernest team can help

Once your DNO has set up a connection to the National Grid, the Papernest team can help you to find the perfect energy plan for your needs and budget. We’ll also manage your switch from end-to-end so you can start enjoying greener, cheaper energy faster and hassle-free. If you want to feed your own energy into the grid, we can also help you find the best Smart Export Guarantee rates.

Want to know more?

Call us today on 0330 818 6225.

We’re available from 8am to 6pm.

Would you like to know more about the UK energy market? Great! Check out these related articles:

1. Ofgem

Getting the right EPC rating is required for selling or renting a home as they provide valuable information about how well a home performs in terms of energy. They also give prospective buyers or renters an indication of what energy bills will be like.

The EPC gives a property a grade on a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient and offering the lowest bills. The grade your property receives will depend on the amount of energy used per square metre and the level of carbon dioxide emissions.

What is an EPC rating?

An EPC certificate rates your home in terms of its energy efficiency. It estimates energy costs and provides a summary of the energy efficiency, giving an idea of its performance related features.

An EPC can also include recommendations on certain measures that would make your property more energy efficient. It can also give you an idea of the potential savings you could make if you implement these changes.

In the UK, an EPC is carried out by an EPC assessor (in Scotland this must be a government approved agent). They will conduct a brief survey of your home looking at energy appliances, insulation, materials used and construction techniques. They will then give your property a rating from A to G, with A being the most efficient.

You only need an EPC rating if you are planning on selling or renting your property, as it is required by law. But once you have the certificate it is valid for 10 years.

What does an EPC rating mean?

Apart from listed properties, every home in the UK needs to have an EPC rating before it can be sold or rented. The EPC makes it much easier for prospective buyers and renters to make comparisons between properties – and this can make a big difference when it comes to buying or renting property.

The ratings are between A and G, with A being the most efficient and therefore meaning bills will be less and the property will generally be more comfortable in terms of warmth and heating.

As of April 2018, landlords in England and Wales have been required to get an EPC rating of at least an E to be able to legally let their property. EPCs are also essential if you want to take part in government schemes such as the Renewable Heat Incentive.

EPC rating bands

The rating bands are between A and G. A is the most desirable and most efficient, with G being the least efficient. In general, new builds tend to have higher ratings because they use newer technologies and techniques that make them more efficient. Older properties tend to have lower ratings down towards the D or E bracket.

The ratings are given according to:

1. The amount of energy used per metre squared
2. The level of CO2 emissions (as given in tons per year)

What does EPC rating F mean?

Although the rating scale goes between A and G, it is also possible to get an F rating. This means that your property has fallen below regulatory standards and needs some immediate attention. Landlords who are renting properties with an F rating are exposing themselves to fines of up to £5,000 unless they make the necessary improvements.

What does an EPC check involve?

The EPC check, carried out by a domestic energy assessor (DEA) generally includes the following:

1. Establishing the age and construction methods of the property
2. Measuring floor and wall spaces
3. Looking at heating systems including the boiler and radiators/heaters
4. Identifying existing cavity wall and loft insulation methods
5. Identifying any alternative heating and energy-efficient products

The DEA will also check the manufacturer of the boiler and establish what kind of boiler it is. They will also look at the boiler controls and assess the efficiency of the heating system. This will all be judged against current standards.

What is the average EPC rating?

A score of 60, which equates to a band D yellow rating, is the average score for the UK.

Scores are given out of 100 and are banded as follows:

The importance of a high EPC rating

An EPC is important to landlords and prospective buyers or renters as it shows how energy efficient a property is. This is very significant as if the property has a low rating, the prospective buyer/renter can assume that the energy bills for that property could be high. When choosing a property to rent or buy, knowing how much it is going to cost to run can make a big difference.

It is also important because if you are a landlord without a valid EPC, or one that does not meet the standards required, you could be fined up to £5,000.

Can I sell a property with an EPC rating of F?

You can sell a property with an EPC rating of G or even F, however, it is much more difficult to do this. Mortgage companies will not lend on properties with ratings this low so you would have to be looking at cash buyers for a property in this condition. This usually means accepting a lower offer and greatly reduces the number of prospective buyers for your property, which will also drive down the price.

How do I get an EPC?

An EPC must be carried out by an accredited domestic energy assessor, or DEA. You can source one in your local area using the government's official EPC register. However, if you are using an estate or letting agent to sell or rent your home, it is generally part of their job to ensure there is a valid EPC for the property.

How often should EPC be done?

Landlords are obliged to get and EPC at least every ten years – the length of time for which they are valid. However, if you have made changes to your property it is advisable to get a new EPC as this could give you a higher rating.

If the property is not for rent then you only need an EPC when you come to sell. This has to be in date, so needs to have been done within 10 years of the sale date.

How do I get my EPC rating up?

The good news is that it is not that difficult to boost your EPC rating if it is low. The following are easy steps to take to boost your grade:

1. Upgrade to LED light bulbs
2. Install wall and roof insulation
3. Replace windows with double or triple glazing
4. Install solar panels
5. Use a smart meter
6. Replace inefficient boilers and heating

What is the fine for not having an EPC?

For domestic properties the penalty is £200. However, for non-domestic properties the penalty is equivalent to 12.5% of the value of the building, with a minimum of £500 and a maximum of £5,000. If this is not applicable, a default penalty of £750 is issued.

So, the fines are large enough to take the EPC seriously.

Who pays for an EPC certificate?

The EPC is the responsibility of the property owner to arrange and pay for. The EPC needs to be presented to potential buyers or tenants before any sale or contract is agreed.

How to improve your home's energy efficiency rating?

As mentioned above, there are various ways of improving your EPC score. These include better insulation, a new or more efficient boiler, installing solar panels and more. This will involve some level of investment but if you are the homeowner this can be recouped in lower bills. For landlords, a better grade can also mean better rental income.

Low and zero carbon energy sources

One easy way of improving your EPC is to invest in low and zero carbon energy sources, which include:

1. Solar hot water
2. Air source heat pumps
3. Ground source heat pump
4. Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
5. Biomass heating
6. Solar photovoltaics (PV)
7. Wind turbines

Your home’s heating demand

You can also reduce your home’s heating demand by improving the insulation and preventing heat loss in your property.

What is a good energy efficiency rating?

Obviously, the higher the rating the better it is for your property. A grade C or above is generally good, although the newer the property the higher your rating should be. Older properties are generally harder to get higher ratings so a D or above is good. To legally rent a property it needs to be E rated or above.

How much is an EPC?

There is no set fee for an EPC. It depends on factors such as the size and type of property. Prices tend to start at around £60 but it's worth getting quotes from a few energy assessors in your area. You can source these from the EPC register.

Buildings that do not need an EPC

As well as listed buildings, other exempt buildings include:

1. Places of worship
2. Temporary buildings
3. Stand-alone buildings (less than 50 square metres of floor-space)
4. Industrial sites, workshops and non-residential agricultural buildings
5. Buildings due to be demolished
6. Holiday accommodation rented out for less than four months per year
7. Residential buildings used less than four months a year

What EPC rating do you need to rent?

Your property will need an EPC rating above an E grade in order to be legally rented out.

Can I view an EPC online?

If you do not have a copy of an EPC for your property, you can access a copy online. If you are in England or Wales, simply enter your postcode into the Landmark register to receive a copy of the latest certificate.

Read more:

• The importance of the gas safety certificate
• What is the electrical safety certificate?

What is an Electrical Safety Certificate? How do you get one? What exactly gets inspected when carrying out electrical safety tests? And how often do you need to get your property’s electrical infrastructure checked? In this post, we’ll look at everything you need to know about Electrical Safety Certificates.

Let’s start at the very beginning...

What is an Electrical Safety Certificate?

An Electrical Safety Certificate is a document issued by a qualified and registered electrician. It is used to qualify your home or investment property’s electrical safety and ensure that it remains compliant.

An Electrical Safety Certificate is issued after an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) has been carried out on a property. Your Electrical Safety Certificate or EICR certificate needs to be kept up to date, with new inspections mandatory every 5 years.

Why is an Electrical Safety Certificate important?

An Electrical Safety Certificate is an important part of a landlord’s legal duty to keep their properties safe and fit for human habitation as per the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act of 2018. This legislation helps to ensure that privately rented properties are safe to occupy throughout the tenancy.

Electrical and gas safety is an extremely important consideration for all households. According to Home Office data, electrical faults are responsible for over 10% of house fires in the UK. When electrical installations are neglected for a length of time, this increases the risk of things that can lead to electrical fires such as overloaded outlets, exposed wiring or outdated appliances.

What is the Electrical Safety Certificate Act?

There is no specific act that deals with the issuing and updating of EICR certificates. However, legislation that came into force in June 2020 is in exercise of the powers stated in sections 122 and 123 of the Housing and Planning Act 2016(1) and section 234 of, and paragraph 3 of Schedule 4 to, the Housing Act 2004(2).

The legislation applies to all new rental properties from 1st July 2020, and all existing private rental properties as of 1st April 2021.

What do the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2021 require?

As of 1st April 2021, all current private landlords are expected to comply with the legislation, requiring them to get regular electrical safety inspections carried out by a registered electrician every few years.

The results of these mist be issued to the tenant occupying the property within 28 days. If their local authority requests it, landlords must also supply them with a copy of this certificate within 7 days.

Landlords should also keep a copy for their own records, so that they’ll always be able to show one to an inspector, local authority, or prospective tenant.

What does an EICR look like?

There is no specific format that an EICR has to take. Which may be a point of frustration for some landlords, as every issuing electrician’s EICR report may look slightly different. However, this isn’t necessarily a problem. Landlords just need to ensure that the report contains all the relevant information that we detail below.

What does an electrical safety certificate show?

In order to ensure legal compliance, an EICR report needs to contain a detailed record of all checks made. Where deficiencies or potential issues in electrical safety are spotted, the report will detail any recommended remedial measures or improvements that landlords will either need to make to ensure certification, or to consider in the future to keep the property as safe as possible.

The purpose of the electrical safety inspection is to:

• Ascertain any potential safety risks in the property’s permanent installations (lights, sockets, fixtures, electric storage boiler etc.).
• Identify any poorly executed electrical work that is either hazardous or potentially hazardous.
• Make sure that no electrical circuits or equipment are overloaded.
• Ensure that earthing and bonding have been carried out properly, and that there is sufficient resistance to trip the circuit breakers in the event of a surge.

What will be inspected and tested?

The EICR pertains to all "fixed" installations in your home. In essence, this means all parts of your electrical infrastructure that are permanently attached to the property.

This includes:

• All light fittings
• All plug sockets
• All internal and external wiring
• The property’s fuse boxes
• Any electrical equipment that is permanently connected, such as storage heaters, power showers, or extractor fans

Non-fixed appliances like your fridge, washing machine or electric oven do not fall under the EICR inspection. However, it is a good idea to get these looked at regularly, too. We’ll look at these in greater detail shortly.

How much is an Electrical Safety Certificate UK?

Every landlord wants to reduce operating costs while also keeping their profits stable. As such, they may sigh inwardly at the prospect of the increased expense necessitated by an Electrical Safety Certificate. However, the cost of the EICR itself (which includes your certificate) is fairly negligible.

How much does an electrical safety certificate cost in the UK?

Different electricians charge different amounts. However, starting costs for an EICR and Electrical Safety Certificate usually start at around £120 plus VAT. Your costs may vary if your home requires more of the electrician’s time to carry out the necessary checks and make their report. This may be the case with larger houses or older properties.

Where electrical installations are found to be unsafe or below the expected electrical safety standards, the report will outline measures required to achieve certification. Although landlords will need to bear the cost of these repairs, they are still fairly negligible compared to the cost of non-compliance.

Which brings us to...

What happens if you don’t comply with electrical safety regulations?

Despite popular misconceptions, most landlords don’t enjoy the bountiful profit margins that many assume. Between mortgage payments, agency fees and the cost of upkeep and maintenance, many landlords find themselves making only a modest profit on their properties.

However, the cost of an Electrical Safety Certificate pales in comparison to the potential consequences of non-compliance.

Under new legislation introduced in June 2020, local authorities have the authority to fine private landlords up to £30,000 if they do not comply with the new electrical safety rules.

However, the damage to your reputation as a landlord may be even more costly in the long term. Tenants need to know that their landlords will look after their best interests, and invest where necessary to ensure that their properties are safe. And there are multiple platforms, such as Rate My Landlord where tenants can share their experiences with private landlords.

Prospective tenants can, and do, check resources like these before moving into a rental property. And if a tenant complains that you did not carry out necessary electrical safety checks for the property, you may have trouble filling the property with new tenants.

And that’s every landlord’s nightmare!

Are there any other tests that you should consider?

An Electrical Safety Certificate is an essential expense when you’re a UK landlord. However, this is by no means the only kind of electrical safety certification you can get.

Remember that an EICR covers all the "fixed" installations in your home, such as your electrical sockets, light fixtures, and wiring. But these are by no means the only important parts of your property’s electrical infrastructure. Let’s take a look at some other tests that you may need.

PAT Test

You should also consider getting a portable appliance test (also known as PAT test or P test) for any portable appliances in your rental property. PAT certificates are issued by the energy safety charity Electrical Safety First.

A PAT test by an approved electrician can ensure that portable appliances like your electrical cooker, your fridge or freezer, your washing machine and drier comply with UK electrical safety standards.

A portable appliance could be anything with a plug attached. However, don’t make the mistake of assuming that only large appliances need to be checked. Even things like toasters and kettles can be responsible for electrical issues. Especially if you buy them online, as products from online retailers are not beholden to the same safety standards

A PAT test is fairly cost-effective. It usually costs between £1 and £2 per appliance tested. Electrical Safety First can help you to find an approved electrician near you to carry out this test.

Electrical Safety First also has some useful guides and resources for UK landlords to make electrical safety compliance easier.

Electrical Installation Certificate

Whenever you get a new electrical installation like a new electrical outlet, power shower, light fixture or extractor fan, you’ll need to ensure that the electrician responsible for fitting it provides you with an Electrical Installation Certificate. This, along with the Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC) for small amendments to current installations, provides assurance that the installation in question met safety compliance standards at the time of installation.

What standard does a new electrical installation need to meet?

New electrical installations need to adhere to the standards set out in the 18th edition of the Wiring Regulations. These state that new electrical installations should be safe for continued use. They also establish that any remedial or investigative work highlighted in an EICR needs to be carried out as soon as possible to ensure compliance.

How often do you have to have an Electrical Safety Certificate?

Landlords may reasonably wonder how many Electrical Safety Certificates they will be expected to obtain for as long as they manage a property. After all, £120 or so may seem like a fairly reasonable one-off expense. But if they need to be obtained very regularly they could start to eat into your profit margins. Especially if you manage multiple properties.

So, how often do you need to renew your Electrical Safety Certificate?

Let’s find out...

How long is an Electrical Safety Certificate valid for?

There are no expiry dates for Electrical Safety Certificates, and they don’t necessarily get invalidated. However, under recent legislation, private landlords are required to get new ElCR certificates every 5 years.

This is because your electrical installations can become worn, damaged or deteriorated over time. Re-checking every 5 years ensures that your property remains safe, and keeps your property compliant.

A very modest investment of your time and money to ensure that present and future tenants have lasting peace of mind.

What do I do if I don't have an electrical installation certificate?

If you don’t have an EIC certificate, you won’t be able to prove that your property is energy safety compliant. You’ll need to either track down your certificate. If it has been lost, you can contact the electrician who carried out the report to request a replacement copy. You may be charged for this, and costs will vary depending on the electrician.

As a last resort, the electrician may need to carry out the work again and issue a new certificate.

After 5 years, new installations can be covered by an EICR certificate.

How do you know if an electrician is certified?

An EICR can only be carried out by a qualified and competent person". These are the only people able to issue you with a valid Electrical Safety Certificate that will be acknowledged by local authorities.

Searching the Registered Competent Persons database is a great way to ensure that your chosen local electrician is properly qualified. Choosing a registered electrician brings peace of mind for a number of reasons:

• You are assured that they BS7671 safety standard
• They’re regulated by the UK government
• They’re legally able to carry out all kinds of electrical work
• Their work and skills are assessed regularly
• Their work is ensured, so you and your property have the protection you need

Landlords or selling house: Electrical Safety Certificate requirements

Now we know a little more about the different kinds of Electrical Safety Certificates, and when you might need them. But if you’re a private landlord, or an owner-occupant thinking of selling their home, you may be unsure about what certificates are necessary for your current predicament.

In the final segment of this post, we’ll try and answer some questions that will clarify your position if you are letting out a property, considering becoming a private landlord, or thinking of selling your home.

What certificates are required to sell a house?

When selling a house, you don’t necessarily need an EICR or an EIC certificate. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s not a good idea to have one. Something that we’ll discuss in greater detail later.

However, there are some certificates that you’ll need to provide when selling your home. Including an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This is a certificate that provides prospective buyers with an overview of the property’s energy efficiency, and potential improvements that could be made to reduce energy costs and lower the property’s carbon footprint. Of course, the papernest team will always be there to help you lower your energy bills by choosing a new tariff in your current home or your next property.

In addition to an EPC, you will also need to obtain the following when selling your property:

• Shared freehold documentation, or a copy of your lease if the property is leasehold
• A leasehold information pack for flats and other leasehold properties
• TA10 fittings and contents form detailing exactly what is included in the price (garage, shed, trees etc.)
• TA6 property information form. Detailing the properties boundaries, utility connections, planning permissions etc.

Who can issue an EICR certificate?

Only a registered "qualified and competent" electrician can issue an EICR certificate. You should also only use these kinds of electricians when carrying out any necessary remedial work that your report highlights.

When choosing a qualified and competent electrician to inspect their property, landlords have a range of resources they can access, including, but not limited to, the Electrical Safety Roundtable and the Registered Competent Person Electrical single mark and register.

How do I find a "qualified and competent person" to carry out the test?

The quickest and easiest way to find a "qualified and competent" electrician is to search for a local contractor on the Registered Competent Persons website. They have a useful search facility that will help you to find qualified and registered electricians close to your property.

Is an Electrical Safety Certificate a legal requirement for UK landlords in 2021?

By now, we’ve hopefully established that as of April 2021, am Electrical Safety Certificate is a legal requirement for all private landlords in the UK. But are there any exceptions or properties that may be exempt.

Let’s take a look.

Electrical Safety Certificate Exemptions

Schedule 1 of the Electrical Safety Regulations details a number of exceptions where landlords may not need to provide an Electrical Safety certificate.

These include:

• Social housing
• Long leases of 7 years or more
• Student halls of residence
• Hostels and refuges
• Lodgers
• Care homes
• Hospitals, hospices, and other accommodations associated with providing healthcare

What about Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)?

Some landlords manage houses in multiple occupation (HMO). These are properties that are rented out by at least 3 people who are not from the same household but share communal facilities like a kitchen or bathroom. As of July 2020, the previous Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation Regulations of 2006 have been repealed. This means that HMOs are now covered by the new Electrical Safety Regulations.

What about new build properties and new electrical fittings?

New buildings and their electrical fittings are slightly different. New installations will require an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC). They will remain compliant for their first 5 years. After this, however, you will need to obtain an EICR.

Can I sell my house without an Electrical Safety Certificate?

Yes. You can still still your property without an Electrical Safety certificate. However, safety-conscious buyers may be more reticent to buy if you don’t already have one. Obtaining an Electrical Safety Certificate might make your property more appealing to buyers, demonstrating that they won’t have electrical safety issues to resolve when they purchase the property.

How about if I’m a homeowner? Do I need an Electrical Safety Certificate?

Do you need an Electrical Safety Certificate? No. Should you get one? We’d certainly advise it. First of all, an EICR can highlight potential electrical safety issues in your home that you may not have been aware of. Issues that you may want to rectify as soon as possible, especially if you share your home with young children. What’s more, an Electrical Safety certificate may make your property more appealing to buyers if you should decide to sell it in the future. While you have no legal requirement to obtain it, it can demonstrate that you care about making the property a safe place, and have invested in maintaining its electrical infrastructure.

It’s a good idea to get a new EICR carried out every 5-10 years. Even if you have no intention of selling your property.

Where can I find my electrical certificate?

When your Electrical Installation Condition Report is carried out, you will receive one copy for your own records, and another to issue to your tenants (where appropriate). It’s important to keep your copy somewhere safe so that you can provide it in a timely manner if your local authority asks to see it.

If you lose your EICR, contact the electrician that issued it as soon as possible. They may be able to issue you with a replacement, however this may be chargeable.

Top 7 tips for electrical safety for landlords

The cost of managing your property’s electrical safety can be mitigated if you have a proactive attitude. The more you deal with small electrical issues as and when they occur, the less likely it is that your EICR will yield bad news of expensive repairs.

Here are 7 tips to help landlords maintain electrical safety and ensure that EICR reports come back with nothing but good news.

• Ensure that all electrical installations are tested regularly by registered electricians. You should use these even for smaller jobs
• Carry out regular visual inspections, checking for issues like exposed wiring, frayed wires, damaged plug sockets, or scorched plugs
• Leave instructions with tenants on how to access the fusebox and the isolator switch
• Make sure your tenants have copies of the operating manuals for all the appliances that are supplied with the property (such as the boiler, storage heaters, washing machine etc.).
• Make sure your property is up to date with the latest wiring and lighting regulations. While landlords have no legal obligations to install the most up-to-date systems, this can ensure that your electrical infrastructure is as safe and efficient as possible
• Ensure that a residual current device (RCD) is fitted to your property’s fuse box. This is an important safeguard against electrical fires and can help to prevent electric shocks that may result in injury or even death
• Be very wary of supplying second hand electrical items. These are cheaper, but may not comply with current electrical safety standards. Make sure they’re thoroughly tested before you install them, and get PAT tests every 5-10 years.

Combine electrical safety with great value for money. Get in touch with the papernest team today!

Many landlords offer all-inclusive packages that combine rent with utility bills. Switching suppliers regularly can ensure that you get the best possible value for money on your energy bills, and maintain healthy profit margins. In fact, the average household can save around £300 per year by switching suppliers regularly.

Why not call the papernest team today on 0330 818 6225 to see how much we could help you save?

We’re available from 8am to 6pm.

Read more:

• What to do in a power cut?

If you’re a landlord, you are legally required to have valid gas safety certificates for all gas appliances in your rented properties. Certificates need to be renewed every 12 months and it’s essential that your gas safety record is always up to date.

To help you understand exactly what a gas safety certificate is, and whether or not you need on, we’re taking a closer look at this important safety check and everything it involves.

How much does a gas safety certificate cost?

There’s no fixed cost for a gas safety certificate. Instead, engineers are free to set their own fees. As a result, the cost of a gas safety certificate can vary depending on the engineer you use and your geographical location. Customers in London generally pay more for certificates while those in less expensive regions may be able to find a cheaper deal.

On average gas safety certificates in the UK cost between £60 and £90 including VAT. If you have a number of gas appliances, getting them all checked at the same time could save you money.

Some companies advertise certificates for as little as £30 per appliance. However, these quotes may include a number of hidden costs, so it’s important to check the small print carefully before you sign on the dotted line.

How much is a landlord gas certificate?

The cost of a gas safety certificate should be the same whether you’re a landlord or owner occupier (in general tenants don’t need to worry about gas safety certificates as landlords are responsible for the upkeep of gas appliances).

If you own a property that’s currently rented out, you’ll need to budget between £60 and £90 per year for your gas safety certificate. If you own a number of properties, you may be able to negotiate a discount if you use the same engineer, or the same company, for all of your certificates.

Why do you need a gas safety certificate?

Gas safety certificates show that a gas-fired appliance is in good working order and is safe to use. This is important as faulty gas appliances can be dangerous.

For example, if your boiler isn’t working properly it could leak toxic chemicals, including carbon monoxide, into the home. This can potentially cause illness and, in extreme cases, death.

The main dangers of a faulty gas appliance are:

• Gas leaks – Gas leaks are very dangerous and can result in fires or explosions. If you think you can smell gas, then you’ll need to call your emergency service provider straight away. During your gas safety check, your engineer will do a visual inspection of pipework and a tightness test to confirm there aren’t any leaks.
• Fires and explosions - Safe appliances burn gas in a controlled way. However, a faulty appliance, or faulty pipework, can leak gas which can then be ignited.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning - Carbon monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas that can be released when gas isn’t burned properly. It’s especially deadly because you can’t see, taste or smell it.

In order to receive a gas safety certificate, an appliance must be checked to ensure it’s working as it should be. The engineer will also check associated parts of the appliance, like the flue, pipework and safety features, to make sure the appliances is safe to use.

How long does a gas safety certificate last?

A gas safety certificate lasts for 12 months. This means that you’ll need to arrange for your appliances to be checked, and your certificates to be renewed, every year.

Is it a legal requirement to have a gas safety certificate?

If you’re a homeowner, you’re not legally required to have a gas safety certificate. However, it’s still a good idea to get your appliances checked by a registered engineer on a regular basis.

If you have home insurance, it’s possible that a gas safety certificate will be a condition of the policy. If you need to make a claim, your insurer may request a gas safety certificate before they pay out.

Some manufacturers also require a gas safety record to be kept in order for a warranty to be valid. When you buy a new appliance, like a boiler, gas hob or gas fire, make sure you check the conditions of the warranty to ensure you’re able to claim if something goes wrong.

If you’re a landlord, having gas safety certificates for all of your appliances is legally required. You’ll need to ensure these are renewed every year in order for your property to be safe and to stay within the law. You will also need to provide your tenants with a copy of the certificate within 28 days of the check being carried out.

Is it illegal to sell a house without a gas safety certificate?

A gas safety certificate isn’t required by law when selling a house. If you’re an owner occupier, you don’t need to arrange for a safety check to be carried out before putting your home on the market. However, buyers may be reassured, and therefore more keen to make an offer, if a recent safety check has been completed.

If you’re a landlord selling the property with tenants in place, you will need to have a valid gas safety certificate.

What is included in a gas safety check?

During a gas safety check, a registered Gas Safe engineer will thoroughly check your gas appliances to ensure they’re properly installed and are working correctly. They’ll look at things like the pipework, flue, connecting points and ignition system, checking for faults and obvious signs of damage as they go.

If any safety issues are identified during a gas safety check, your engineer will recommend any action that needs to be taken in order to bring the appliance up to an acceptable standard. In some cases, the engineer may be able to carry out simple repairs there and then, allowing your appliances to be fixed and certified.

At the end of the gas safety check, the engineer will provide a gas safety record. This is very important as it’s the document that proves the check has taken place. The record will include:

• A description of each appliance tested
• Results of the safety checks carried out on each appliance
• Any safety issues identified during the checks
• Any action or work needed to ensure safety
• Details of the engineer who did the checks, their signature and the date of the check
• Details of the landlord or homeowner and the property

Make sure you keep your gas safety record somewhere safe.

What safety certificates do landlords need?

Gas safety certificates are among the most important safety certificates that landlords need. However, they are not the only certificates required by law in the UK. If you’re a landlord, you – or your management company – will also have to arrange:

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
• Electrical Certificates
• Gas Safety Certificate
• Fire safety checks
• Legionella risk assessment
• Deposit Protection Paperwork

If you’re a tenant, it’s important to check that your landlord has all of these documents in place when your tenancy begins. If you’re missing anything, contact your landlord, or letting agency, to let them know.

Do landlords need a gas safety certificate every year?

It’s a legal requirement for landlords to have a valid gas safety certificate in place on every rented property they own. These certificates need to be renewed every 12 months.

Is it a legal requirement to provide an electrical safety certificate?

As well as gas safety certificates, landlords also need to provide electrical safety certificates for their rented properties. Like gas safety certificates, these are issued by qualified engineers after a thorough safety check. Electrical safety certificates last 5 years.

What happens if you don't have a gas safety certificate?

If you’re a homeowner and your gas safety certificate has expired, or you haven’t arranged for a safety check to be carried out, you don’t have to do anything.

As an owner-occupier, you’re not legally required to have a certificate in place. You only need to arrange for a gas safety check to be completed if it’s a requirement of your home insurance policy or manufacturer warranty, or for peace of mind.

Landlords that don’t have valid gas safety certificates in place need to arrange for checks to be carried out urgently. Letting a property that doesn’t have a gas safety certificate is illegal and can be viewed as a criminal offence. Non-compliance can result in a fine and even imprisonment.

Getting a Gas Safety Certificate during COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, carrying out safety checks and maintaining properties has been a little more complicated than normal. While government guidelines have allowed gas safety checks during the pandemic, in many cases, tenants have been understandably reluctant to allow workmen into their homes.

As a landlord, you’re still required to arrange annual gas safety checks. However, if your tenants refuse to allow an engineer access to the property, there is some flexibility in the rules. In most cases, you’ll just need to show that you took reasonable steps to ensure the checks were in place.

Make sure that you keep records of your communication with your tenants to prove that you attempted to carry out the gas safety check.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Advice for landlords

You can find up to date advice for landlords about COVID-19 on the government website. Check for regular updates to ensure you always follow the latest guidelines.

Read more:

• What to do in case of power cut?

How do you know the risks that are prevalent in your home or business? How can you weave energy safety into the fabric of your home or business premises? And what happens if you do nothing about energy safety?

We explore all aspects of energy safety in this guide.

What are the risks of mishandled energy safety?

The power industry in the UK is extremely mindful of the safety implications of using energy from electricity or gas. With the rise of renewable energy in the UK (with renewables now accounting for 40% of our energy fuel mix), this brings additional health and safety risks. For example, the farming of biomethane gas carries as much risk of fire or explosion as the drilling of natural gas.

Even in the home, where multiple safety measures are employed from reduced voltages to gas safety shut-off valves, energy use carries a series of risks.

These include:

• The risk of electrocution
• The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning
• Risk of boiler explosion
• Risk of electrical fire

What are some red flags when it comes to energy safety ?

What to look out for?

Energy safety should be a priority for every household. If you’ve never thought about the energy safety of your home, you should carry out an audit of your home to identify red flags in the home.

Red flags include any gas or electrical infrastructure that is neglected or fallen into disrepair. Loose cables are certainly a cause for concern, as are electrical outlets with visible burn marks or a fishy smell (indicative of electrical fire). Likewise, the older your boiler (and the less service history you have), the greater a risk your boiler could be to your household.

Know the risks

We’re all extremely busy. And in the sparse free time that we get to ourselves, few of us want to dedicate time and energy to identifying risks in the home. However, if you aren’t proactive in identifying energy safety hazards in the home, your family could be at risk in a number of ways:

• Babies and infants (who can’t keep their fingers to themselves) can be at risk of electrocution from power outlets.
• Loose electrical cables can be pulled by children or pets.
• Gas leaks can be extremely damaging or fatal to all in your household. Especially young children.
• Overloading your plug sockets with unfused adaptors can be a serious fire risk.

What to spot

Here are some warning signs that you might want to look out for around the home. Any of these can indicate that your energy safety isn’t all that it should be:

• Multiple plug adaptors are plugged into one another, potentially overloading the outlet and creating a fire risk.
• Plug sockets that are accessible to infants and babies are uncovered.
• The gas boiler has no service history.
• Your boiler, cooker and other gas appliances do not have gas safety certificates.
• Electrical plugs and connectors are visibly damaged.
• Electrical cables are loose or dangling.
• Cables have been repaired with tape, or internal wires are visible.

Types of energy safety certificates

Energy safety certificates are a great way to demonstrate that your home or business premises is energy safe. They can provide peace of mind as well as ensuring compliance for businesses (or private rental properties).

Here are the different types of energy safety certificates, and why you might need them...

Gas Safety Certificates (CP12)

A Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) is the certificate you get after completing your annual gas safety check. This is part of your gas safety record and a legal requirement for private landlords. Gas Safety Certificates can only be issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Electrical Safety Certificate (NICEIC)

An Electrical Safety Certificate (NICEIC) is also a legal requirement for all UK landlords, and demonstrates that your property’s electrical circuitry and appliances are safe to use.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC)

The Energy Performance Certificate was established in 2007 to provide a uniform way to quantify the property’s energy efficiency of residences. An EPC certificate is necessary whenever you put a property on the market to sell or let, and must be updated every 10 years.

Commercial EPCs

As of 2013, EPCs have also become mandatory for commercial premises. You are required to have one whenever selling or leasing a commercial premises, or applying for the Renewable Heat Incentive.

Types of prevention methods to keep your home safe

Fortunately, there are lots of ways in which you can put preventative measures in place to protect your family, yourself and (in the case of business premises) your employees. Additonally, here is what you should do in a power cut: What to do in a power cut.

These include...

Fire Risk Assessments (FRA)

A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is a legal requirement for all businesses. It is also your legal responsibility to keep a written record of your fire risk assessment if your business employs 5 or more people. It is needed to identify the fire risks inherent in your business premises, and what you need to do to keep your employees safe.

Boiler repairs/installations/ servicing

In order to ensure that your boiler is as safe (and efficient) as possible, it needs to be installed and repaired by Gas Safe registered engineers. You should also get a registered engineer to carry out annual servicing on your boiler. This is included in most boiler cover plans. The team at papernest can advise on the best boiler cover for your needs and setup.

Emergency lighting/ fire alarms

Fire alarms are necessary in business premises, while all residential homes must also be fitted with a smoke alarm. It’s also a good idea to equip your home with a carbon monoxide detector, as this gas can propagate whenever fuel of any kind is burned.

Combine energy safety with cost-efficiency, courtesy of papernest

At papernest, we can help you to combine energy safety with cost-efficiency. Not only can we help you to find the cheapest and best-value energy plan on the market, we can also help by choosing you the perfect boiler cover plan for your needs. So you can ensure that your boiler is as safe and efficient as possible with regular servicing and repairs.

Want to know more about how we can keep you safe while saving you money?

Call us today on 0330 818 6225.

We’re available from 8am to 6pm.

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