From 1 October 2008, residential property landlords will be required to provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for their property and make it available to prospective tenants before the tenancy agreement is signed (except where an existing tenancy is renewed).
What is an Energy Performance Certificate or EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate or EPC is an assessment of the energy efficiency of your property and its environmental impact, ie. carbon dioxide emissions. The information is made available on request for potential buyers in the form of two graphs using a scale A-G rather like those shown on new fridges and washing machines.
Why do I need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
The Government is bringing in legislation from 1 October 2008 requiring that an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) be made available to all tenants before the tenancy agreement is signed (except where an existing tenancy is renewed).
The purpose of the Certificate is to rate a property’s energy efficiency and make recommendations about how it may be improved. It will provide prospective tenants with an estimate of how much it costs to provide heating, lighting and hot water before they rent the property.
Vickery have trained Energy Assessor staff able to undertake and complete EPCs on your behalf, straight away. Although the Certificate must be made available to prospective tenants from 1 October, a landlord can apply for it before this date and once obtained, an EPC remains valid for up to 10 years. For more information call our Lettings Management Team on 01252 519101.
How long will it take to carry out the EPC and will it delay my property being rented?
The EPC must be available to the prospective tenant before the tenancy agreement is signed - Vickery have trained Domestic Energy Assessors trained and qualified to undertake the assessment of your property ensuring that no delays occur.
Do I need a new EPC every time a tenant moves into my property?
No, once in place the certificate is valid for up to 10 years.
You may also like to know that there is financial help for landlords who make improvements to their properties. Grants including the Landlord Energy Saving Allowance (LESA), introduced in 2004, allows landlords who pay tax to claim back up to £1,500 per property for the installation of energy saving measures. Please note this grant applies to expenditure incurred before 5 April 2009 only. To find out more information about this and other grants that may be available, please visit the Energy Saving Trust website, www.est.org.uk or call 0800 512 015.
