What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ?
An EPC or Energy Performance Certificate is broadly similar to the labels provided with domestic appliances such as fridges and washing machines. They provide a rating of how energy efficient a building is by giving it a rating between A & G, where A is very inefficient. The idea being that tenants can use them to make informed decisions on which property to rent based partly on their likely fuel efficiency.
When do landlords need an Energy Performance Certificate?
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC )and recommendation report must be made available free of charge by the landlord to any prospective tenant at the earliest opportunity. The government defines these “opportunities” as being when
“ any written information about the building is provided in response to a request for information received from the prospective tenant”
Or
“when a viewing is conducted”
If neither of the above takes place then the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be produced before the letting contract is signed.
Where do landlords get an Energy Performance Certificate?
EPCs are available from one of the approximately 7000 qualified domestic energy assessors (DEA’s) that have been recruited to handle the work.
How much should an Energy Performance Certificate cost?
The government estimate that they should cost around £100.
If a landlord searches the Internet they will be quoted prices over and under £100. Some of the low cost EPC on further inspection are not quite as attractive as they first appear. Many headline rates exclude VAT which will immediately put an extra 17.5% onto the cost. Others offer variable rates for different sized properties. Needless to say the low price only applies to 1 bed properties for example.
The good news for landlords Energy Performance Certificates
The good news for landlords is that once done the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC )lasts for 10 years.
Chris writes for propertyhawk.co.uk a site dedicated to UK landlords and free tenancy agreements . Including free online property management software.
