Energy Performance Certificates for Rental Properties
From October 1st 2008 all properties offered for rental as domestic homes must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate in place before a tenant takes up residence. This is part of the government's drive to focus public attention on the energy use of private homes, which currently account for more than 40% of our greenhouse gas emmissions. The Energy Performance Certificate is the chosen means of delivering this information to both landlords and tenants. As the price of energy continues to soar, it will become increasingly a factor in people's choice of which property to rent, and tenants are well advised to take the findings of the EPC into account before they take up a tenancy.
FAQs on Energy Performance Certificates ( EPCs)
What is involved?
The process itself is relatively simple. Our Assessor will make an appointment to visit the property, conduct his assessment wich takes on average about an hour, and then process the information gathered back at the office. The finished Certificate is supplied in paper and/or electronic form to the landlord and their chosen agent normally within 24 - 48 hours of your instructions being confirmed. Therefore all that is required of you, the landlord, or your tenants, is access to the property for about an hour.
How long is it valid for?
Once completed, The EPC is valid for 10 years for rental properties( only 3 years fro marketed sales though). However if significant improvements are made, it may be worthwhile commissioning a new Certificate.
When should this be done?
The legislation, which comes into force on October 1st 2008, requires that an EPC is made available to prospective tenants at the earlist possible opportunity in the letting process. This should be either when property details are provided, or when a viewing is conducted or at the very latest before a contract to let the property is entered into. The requirement only covers new tenancies granted after October 1st. The requirement for an EPC cuts in at the change of a tenancy.
What does the Assessor look for?
The Assessor will measure the footprint of the dwelling, plus room heights, and record details of adjoining walls, floors, and any common areas such as corridors. He will also look at heating and water storage arrangements, and levels of insulation, plus record other relevant details of the construction of the building. The assessment does not record details of specific appliances like fridges or washing machines etc - other than those directly relating to heating such as electric fires or portable heaters. It is helpful if any manuals on the heating system(s), and any details of retro-fitted insulation or replacement windows could be made available at the time of inspection.
Who sees the Certificate?
The finished Certificate must be made available to any serious prospective tenant. However the raw information gathered, plus the limited photography involved is not published and remains confidential. No record of any description of any security information, or any other aspect not directly related to energy performance is gathered or stored.
How many copies do I get?
We normally supply two paper copies by mail as standard, plus as many electronic copies as you may require by e-mail. We can also supply the finished EPC on CD. The file format is PDF
What does it cost?
Every case is different, and therefore the time taken to produce the Certificate varies. In addition we may be able to offer bulk discounts where several properties in close proximity to each other can be assessed at the same time. As a rough guide though allow £65- £85 for this service. Please call for a quotation on your specific needs.