As from 1st October 2008 landlords in England and Wales are required by law to provide their tenants with an Energy Performance Certificate.
Wiith the 1st October deadline having now passed all of us involved in the renting of residential properties need to ensure that we are complying with the new regulations. These are reasonably straight forward and can hopefully be explained, thus:-
Why Are They Needed?
To inform tenants about the energy usage and Co² emissions of a building via an energy rating which is scaled from A (good) to G (poor) and recommend how this might be improved.
When Are They Needed?
As from yesterday an EPC must be made available to prospective tenants on marketing material which more often than not will be in the form of a graph as shown adjacent.
EPCs are not required when an existing lease is renewed, only when the tenant changes.
Which Properties Require an EPC?
The directive applies to any dwelling that is self-contained and rented out. Exceptions will apply to certain buildings such as holiday lets and those that share facilities, i.e. bathrooms and kitchens.
Who is Responsible?
The landlord is ultimately responsible for ensuring there is an EPC even if an agent or service organisation is acting on their behalf. Legislation provides for fines for those who fail to comply.
How Long is an EPC Valid For?
Ten years from the date of it’s production, unless alterations are made to the property including changing it’s heating system.
If we can assist with the preparation of Energy Performance Certificates please do not hesitate to contact Daren Venning on 07912 391487 or Richard Norman on 07967 885658.
