Energy Performance Certificates

 A Key Change in Legislation

 It is now a legal requirement for all landlords offering a property to rent to provide prospective tenants with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).  This legislation came into effect on the 1^st October 2008.

 An EPC is a review of the energy efficiency and environmental impact of your rented property and is rated on a scale from A-G, A being the most efficient.  It covers the running costs for heating, hot water and lighting and will also suggest energy saving improvements for the property.   Landlords, however, are not obliged to carry out any of the recommendations.  Each EPC will have a unique serial number and be produced by energy assessors and home inspectors authorised and accredited by the Government.  The Certificate is valid for 10 years.

 It is illegal to advertise a property to rent unless it has an EPC and the responsibility is on the landlord to make available an EPC to prospective tenants, even if an agent is acting on their behalf.  Landlords face a £200 fine if they are marketing their property to let without an EPC in place, or if one has not been ordered 14 days or more beforehand. 

If you wish us to arrange your EPC we have use an authorised Energy Assessor who is offering highly competitive rates.  Please call us on 01737 222233 for further details and assistance.

 Further information can be obtained on the Government website at http://campaigns.direct.gov.uk/epc/