Energy Performance Certificates

If you are selling your home, you must provide all potential buyers with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

It is also a legal requirement for the landlord to make an EPC available to all prospective tenants.

The award winning technology from ehips offers you a simple and efficient solution.

• Flexible payment options including credit/debit card, cheque or BACs
• EPC appointment booked same day
• Help Desk open 7 days a week

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows the official energy rating of a property. The certificate provides you with a rating for the property, showing its energy efficiency and its environmental impact on a scale from A-G (where A is the most efficient and G is the least efficient). It also contains recommended ways to improve the property's energy performance.

Do I need an EPC?

If your tenant was in situ before 1st October 2008 you will not be required to obtain an EPC until that tenant leaves and the property is re-let. We would recommend that once your tenant gives you notice you ensure that you have your EPC certificate in place to avoid any delays in letting your properties.

If you are selling a property your Home Information Pack must include an EPC.

How long is the EPC valid for?

An EPC is valid for 10 years. You do not need to renew the certificate each time a property is re-let.

How do I obtain an EPC?

EPCs should only be obtained from a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA). ehips have a nationwide panel of DEA's.

Is there a penalty for not obtaining an EPC for a rental property?

Yes, there is a £200 fine for non-compliance. You should not market a property for let until a valid EPC certificate has been obtained.

Can I charge the tenant for the cost of the EPC?

No, the cost of the EPC must be covered by the landlord. However you should factor this cost into your business plan and ensure you offset it against your rental income for tax purposes.

Do I have to carry out the EPC recommendations?

No, you are under no obligation to carry out the recommendations made.

I rent out bedsits; is an EPC required for each individual room?

If the whole property operates from a single heating unit then one EPC should cover the whole building. However, circumstances can vary so we would recommend checking with the Communities and Local Government department at www.communities.gov.uk.

Will the EPC need to be displayed in the property?

The EPC does not need to be displayed in the property; however it must be made available to prospective tenants, free of charge, at the earliest possible 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 tenant, or when a viewing is conducted, or before entering into a contract.