EPCs

The role of EPCs in the Private Rented Sector: The purpose of the Energy Performance Certificate is to show prospective tenants the energy performance of the building they are planning to rent.

Legal requirement to provide

It is mandatory for landlords to have a valid energy performance certificate (EPC) available for all new tenants, highlighting the property’s energy efficiency and its environmental impact, along with providing estimated running costs and recommendations for improving the home’s performance. A certificate will be required for any property that is let on a shared basis regardless of whether it is a joint or sole tenancy agreement. Certificates will be valid for ten years and must have a minimum of an energy rating of E or higher. EPCs must be produced by an accredited Energy Assessor.

What the EPC shows

The EPC shows the energy efficiency rating (relating to running costs) and the Environmental Impact rating (relating to C02 emissions rating) of the property. They are shown on an A – G rating scale similar to those used for fridges and other electrical appliances; The certificate is accompanied by a recommendation report that contains recommendations on how to improve the building’s energy efficiency. However, there is no statutory requirement to carry out any of the recommended measures.