NEW LEGISLATION FROM OCTOBER 2008: ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE REQUIRED FOR RENTAL PROPERTIES
From 1st October, all new tenancy rental properties will require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
WHY DO I NEED AN EPC?
Prospective tenants will be able to see how energy efficient and environmental friendly your properties are. If you have invested in energy saving measures, you will ultimately save the tenant money on utility bills and your property is more likely to be let.
WHAT IS AN EPC?
They tell you how energy efficient a home is on a scale of A-G. The most efficient, with the lowest fuel bills - are in band A.
It also tells you, on a scale of A-G, about the impact the home has on the environment. Better rated homes should have less impact through carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
The average property in the UK is in bands D-E for both ratings. The certificate includes recommendations on ways to improve the home’s energy efficiency to save you money and help
the environment.
WHAT ELSE DOES THE CERTIFICATE DO?
EPCs are measured using the same calculations for all homes, so you can compare the energy efficiency of different properties.
Part of the EPC is a recommendation report which will list the potential rating that your home could achieve, if you made changes. It lists improvements that you could carry out and how this would change the energy and carbon emission rating of the property.
You can use this information to:
HOW CAN I GET AN EPC?
You will need to get this from an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA). Their job is to consider the age, construction and location of the property as well as its current fittings such as heating systems, insulation and double glazing. To find a DEA contact our lettings co-ordination department on 020 7604 5094.
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST FOR AN EPC?
It is early days with the introduction of EPC’s for lettings properties and exact costs are still unsure, call our lettings co-ordination department for further information on 020 7604 5094.
DOES EVERYONE NEED AN EPC?
An EPC is required by law when a building is constructed, sold or put up for rent. You will need a certificate if you are:
WHEN SHOULD I GET AN EPC?
Although 1st October is the official date to have an EPC, it is recommended, especially if you have a high turnover of tenants, that you arrange as soon as possible to ensure you are complying with the law when it comes in. If you don’t have one after the date you could be fined £200. The EPC will be valid for ten years.
HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY ENERGY RATING?
For more advice on energy efficiency visit The Energy Saving Trust
WHY ARE EPCS BEING INTRODUCED?
Domestic energy use accounts for 27% of the UK’s carbon dioxide emissions. EPCs are being introduced as part of an energy saving initiative aimed at making buildings more energy efficient.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT HOW ENERGY EFFICIENT MY PROPERTIES ARE NOW?
The Energy Saving Trust can provide you with a personalised energy check report on all your properties for free. Visit The Energy Saving Trust
THE FACTS ABOUT EPCS
Further information
Government Information
The Energy Saving Trust
The HIP Association
Communities.gov.uk