Energy Performance Certificates - Updated Law

EPC Certificates (England & Wales)

It has become apparent that a change in law is forthcoming with regards to Energy Performance Certificates (EPC’s), we have outlined the following advice and action that Landlords will need to know in order to ensure their properties are compliant by the relevant dates.

EPC ratings indicate how energy efficient a property is, giving it a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). They also demonstrate the environmental impact of a property in terms of carbon emissions and how costly it will be to heat and light, both in monetary and CO terms.

From April 2018, it will be unlawful under the Energy Act 2011, to let a residential property on a New Tenancy Agreement with an EPC rating of F or G – the lowest two categories. This will include a tenancy renewal as this will constitute a new fixed term Tenancy Agreement. Obviously if it continues as periodic with no new Tenancy Agreement the landlord will not need to look at this during that period. This will not apply to any existing lettings until 2023 if there is no change of tenancy.

From April 2016, tenants living in F and G rated homes will be able to request that their landlord takes measures to improve the energy efficiency, with the landlord duty bound to respond within a month with a view to bringing the property up to the minimum E rating.

If Landlords wish to upgrade their properties, the first step is to instruct an approved EPC assessor to survey the property and establish the current rating. If the rating is less than an E, the assessor will be able to give advice on how to improve it. This could be as simple as installing energy saving light bulbs, draught proofing or making more comprehensive improvements, such as replacing an ageing boiler, putting in secondary glazing or upgrading heating controls, and installing systems which are likely to have an impact on improving overall energy efficiency. If the Landlords take action now it will mean they have time on their side to schedule the works and budget costs accordingly, with the ability to spread the outlay over the forthcoming years.

It is worth noting that if the property is 'Listed', then an EPC is not required.

If you would like to check if you have an EPC on your property or want to check the rating, you can do this online by entering the postcode here: ONLINE EPC REGISTER

If you do not yet have a certificate for your property and would like to arrange to have one, please contact ann.osman@belvoirandover.com who will be able to arrange a certificate if needed or discuss the short falls with you. If the property is a 'F' or 'G' then we can formulate an action plan for your property.

If you have a property that is not fully managed by us but need advise on this, please email Ann in the first instance.

Please could you email us in all cases in the first instance to avoid a flood of calls into the office, Please bear with us whilst we answer all enquiries.