Energy Performance Certificate - Residential Lettings
From the 1 October 2008 all rental properties with a new tenancy in England and Wales will be required to have an Energy Performance Certificate or "EPC".
Why is This Necessary?
Your prospective tenants will be able to see at a glance how energy efficient and environmentally friendly your property is. If you have invested in energy saving measures, your properties will perform well and will stand out from the crowd.
If note, you may find them harder to rent out in future - at least that is what is being said by the Government.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
An EPC looks rather similar to an energy label found on a domestic appliance such as a fridge or a washing machine. The energy efficiency and environmental impact of your property will be rated on a scale from A to G where A is the most efficient and G the least efficient.
Current running costs for heating, hot water and lighting will also be shown on the Certificate together with a list of recommended energy saving improvements.
Where Do I Get an Energy Performance Certificate?
Having established that it is necessary to obtain a EPC, they are available from a variety of sources. An EPC must be commissioned from an accredited Domestic Energy Assessors (DEA).
They will visit your property to assess the age, construction and location of the property as well as its current fittings, such as heating systems, insulation, double glazing etc.
How Do I Get an Energy Performance Certificate?
We can organise an EPC on your behalf or you can instruct your Letting Agent to obtain one or you can apply for one yourself.
How Much do They Cost
The cost of an EPC may vary due to the size of the dwelling involved.
EPC's sourced through Beviss & Beckingsale cost £65.00p plus VAT.
When Do I Need to Get One?
The new Law applies to all vacancy which arise after the 1 October 2008. You do not need an EPC for a pre-existing tenant at that time.
What Happens if I Do Not Get an EPC
You could be fined £200.00p for non-compliance.
How Long Does an EPC Last
The EPC remains valid for ten years notwithstanding changes of tenancy.
Why is the Government Introducing EPC's?
Domestic energy use accounts for 27% of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions. The Government is introducing a number of energy saving initiatives including EPC's, aimed at making all buildings more energy efficient.
These measures are being applied across all European Union Countries as per the European Directive for the energy performance of buildings.
Further Information
www.homeinformationpack.gov.uk
www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
www.hipassociation.co.uk
www.communities.gov.uk/epbd
Information updated as at 30th September 2008
Mark Ollier
Partner
mark.ollier@bevissandbeckingsale.co.uk