Are you ready for EPCs?
From 1st October, if you enter into a new tenancy agreement, your landlord will have to supply an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
WHY DO I NEED AN EPC?
You will be able to see how energy efficient and environmentally friendly the property is and be able to assess whether you can save money on utility bills. It will also provide information on how to reduce the running cost of the property. So make sure your new Landlord has one!
WHAT IS AN EPC?
They tell you how energy efficient a home is on a scale of A-G. The most efficient, with the lowest fuel bills - are in band A.
It also tells you, on a scale of A-G, about the impact the home has on the environment. Better rated homes should have less impact through carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
The average property in the UK is in bands D-E for both ratings. The certificate includes recommendations on ways to improve the home’s energy efficiency to save you money and help
the environment.
WHAT ELSE DOES THE CERTIFICATE DO?
EPCs are measured using the same calculations for all homes, so you can compare the energy efficiency of different properties.
Part of the EPC is a recommendation report which will list the potential rating that the property could achieve, if the Landlord made changes. It lists improvements that could be carried out and how this would change the energy and carbon emission rating of the property.
You can use this information to:
HOW CAN I GET AN EPC?
You will need to speak to the Letting Agent or the Landlord and ask them to provide you with one.
WHEN SHOULD I EXPECT TO RECEIVE THE EPC?
The EPC and recommendation report must be made available free of charge by the landlord to the prospective tenant at the earliest opportunity and no later than:
DOES EVERYONE NEED AN EPC?
An EPC is required by law when a building is constructed, sold or put up for rent. You will need a certificate if you are:
HOW CAN YOUR LANDLORD IMPROVE THE ENERGY RATING?
HOW CAN I IMPROVE THE ENERGY RATING?
For more advice on energy efficiency visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
WHY ARE EPCS BEING INTRODUCED?
Domestic energy use accounts for 27% of the UK’s carbon dioxide emissions. EPCs are being introduced as part of an energy saving initiative aimed at making buildings more energy efficient.
Further information
www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
www.communities.gov.uk/epbd
THE FACTS ABOUT EPCS
before they have committed to the property or have viewed the property