Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements for landlords and rented properties: what are the rules?
What is an EPC?
EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate. It is a document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a building and is designed to help homeowners and tenants make more informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their property. The certificate rates the building’s energy performance on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and provides recommendations for improving energy efficiency. EPCs are required by law for all homes that are bought, sold, or rented.
Why do landlords need to comply with EPC regulations?
The purpose of the EPC regulations is to help reduce carbon emissions and promote energy efficiency in the UK’s housing stock. By complying with these regulations, landlords are contributing to the effort to combat climate change and help reduce energy bills for their tenants.
Additionally, complying with EPC regulations can benefit landlords in the long term by improving the energy efficiency of their properties, which can make them more attractive to prospective tenants and increase their value.
Landlords Obligations
A residential landlord must ensure a Valid EPC certificate is in place that is above an ‘E’ rating unless the property has an exemption.
The EPC must be valid when a new tenancy agreement is agreed, and a copy should be given to your tenants for their records.
The EPC Certificate lasts for 10 years form the date of issue and you can check your EPC certificate using the details held on the GOV.UK database.
Find an energy certificate – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Failure to ensure the EPC is valid can result in a fine of up to £5000 and £500 for not making a copy available to your tenants.
Do I need my tenant’s permission before arranging an energy assessment?
Landlords and letting agents must give tenants at least 24 hours’ written notice before any property visits. As an energy performance assessment and EPC is a legal requirement, the majority of tenants will happily oblige, but some may want to be present when the assessor stops by.
The tenant must give their consent for any property visits unless it’s an emergency such as a fire, flood, or gas leak.
