As part of the lettings process, landlords are required to ensure that their property has Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) available to all prospective tenants (including existing tenants renewing their tenancy) with a minimum performance rating of “E”. This will extend to existing tenancies on 1st April 2020.
An EPC is a certificate issued by an authorised Home Energy Assessor, and is valid for ten years. The certificate is illustrated by two graphs that highlight the energy efficiency and environmental impact of the building in question. These are very similar to the graphs found on a new fridge or car. Rated from A-G, where A is the most efficient and G the least efficient, the graphs are designed to raise awareness of the environmental issues associated with the property in an effort to help us become more environmentally responsible.
The certificate also contains recommended ways of improving the property’s energy performance, and landlords would be well advised to take advantage of the various grants available to landlords wishing to improve the energy efficiency of their properties, especially where the verifiable work involved would cost in excess of £3,500.
The implications of not having an EPC of “E” or above go beyond any potential cost saving as a result of efficiency improvements, with civil penalties of up to £4,000 per breach being imposed, starting at £200 per day for failure to have such a certificate. Details of landlords in breach may also be published.
According to ARLS The number of properties which are EPC rated F or G fell from around 700,000 in 2012 to 300,000 in 2018, but this is still a significant number of properties that are legally unable to be let until they have achieved the correct rating.
We are always aware of our responsibility to help our landlords comply with the increasing burden of legislation. So why not ask us to arrange your EPC today in order to avoid any potential liability. Please feel free to contact us on 01322 228090 for further information.