Energy Performance Certificates ( Mandatory from Oct 1^st 2008 )

A new compulsory Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), initiated by the EU in January 2003, will be introduced in the UK from October 2008 on all residential properties available for rental. All properties where a new rental agreement is created after October 1^st 2008  must have an EPC. ( They are valid from 10 years )

While currently the Energy Performance Certificate is part of the Home Information Packs, for those wishing to SELL their properties, from October 1^st it will also apply to RENTAL situations. The EPC will detail average costs for heating, hot water and lighting in the home. It will also quantify how energy efficient the home is and how to cut costs with energy efficiency measures.

The reports, prepared by qualified home inspectors, ( DEA’s ) will advise consumers on which energy measures - ranging from thicker loft insulation right through to solar panels - could cut carbon emissions from their home and improve their energy rating.

When introduced, the law will require that when a building is rented out, an EPC not more than 10 years old must be made available by the owner to prospective tenants.

The EPC will be based on the existing EU colour scheme, which is used to indicate the energy efficiency of domestic appliances like a fridge, dryer and so on.

The cost of having an EPC carried out will depend on the individual home inspector. Currently the cost is around £85 – but we anticipate this rising to over £120 after October 2008 when the Certificate becomes mandatory.

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