Energy Performance Certificates

Since 1 October 2008, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) had been required for buildings let to tenants by social or private rented sector landlords.

As the Landlord we must provide an Energy Performance Certificates free of charge to prospective tenants at the earliest opportunity so they can see how much energy the home uses. We must also provide a copy of the Energy Performance Certificates to the person who takes up the tenancy.

Energy Performance Certificates are valid for 10 years so it is not necessary to commission a new EPC each time there is a change of tenant.

An Energy Performance Certificates is not required for any property that has been occupied by the same people since October 2008.

Certificates show two things - the Energy Efficiency Rating (relating to running costs) and the Environmental Impact Rating (relating to the carbon dioxide emissions). Each rating is shown on a scale from A to G where A is the most efficient, similar to those used for fridges and other electrical appliances.

The rating is accompanied by a recommendation report that shows how to improve the dwelling's energy efficiency.