|
A
|
 |
 |
 |
As a Landlord you may or may not know about the change in regulations regarding EPCs for rented dwellings. The following is designed to answer any questions you might have about what it’s all about and what you need to do.
What is an EPC?
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) was introduced by the government in response to the requirements of the European Directive (Energy Performance of buildings).
The Energy Performance Certificate rates the energy efficiency of the property at the time of the inspection. It also makes suggestions on how to improve the efficiency rating.
Why do I need an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate is required when a building is constructed, sold or rented out. An EPC is valid for 10 years, except for sales of homes which are subject to the Home Information Pack Regulations 2007, where a Home Information Pack (HIP) is required. In these cases an EPC must be no more than 12 months old when the property is first marketed. A landlord is responsible for ensuring that a valid EPC for their property is available to all prospective tenants from the 1st October 2008. The EPC and recommendation report must be made available free of charge by a landlord to a prospective tenant at the earliest opportunity and no later than: when any written information about the building is provided in response to a request for information received from the prospective buyer; or when a viewing is conducted; or if neither of those occur, before entering into a contract to sell or let.
Landlords or letting agents who don’t have a valid EPC risk being reported to the Local Trading Standards and also the Office of Fair Trading. Penalties include fines of up to £5000 and loss of the right to operate.
How Do I Get an EPC?
Only a qualified and accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) can conduct the inspections necessary and produce the certificate and report. The inspection takes around an hour dependent on the property. During the inspection measurements and photographs will be taken and access to all rooms and loft space will be required, which should be borne in mind when choosing a suitable time for the inspection.
This is an interpretation of the laws regarding Home Information Packs & EPC's at this time, the regulations can change at any time and you should seek further information through the official Government Website at: http://www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk/
Email: epc.aurora@gmail.com Mobile: 0792 55 000 73 |