Landlords – are you prepared for the new EPC regime?

The rules on Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) are about to change. Landlords only have until April 2018 to prepare for a tightening of the rules. Failure to do so could mean they will not be able to rent out their properties.

What is an EPC?

Whenever properties are built, sold or let out to tenants, the law requires an EPC to be obtained - although some buildings are exempt (such as listed buildings).

An EPC gives details on the energy performance of the property. It also sets out how the property's energy performance can be improved.

To obtain an EPC, an energy assessor will visit the property and collect various data in order to assess the energy features of the property. Government approved software is used to create the EPC. The certificate is then valid for 10 years.

If a property does not reach a rating "E", the minimum level of energy efficiency, the property cannot be let. This could have serious consequences for landlords. In addition, if an EPC is required and you are a landlord, builder or owner of that property and have not obtained the EPC, you could be fined.

Action to take

Check now whether you have a valid EPC in place for each relevant property. If you do not or you are not sure whether you need to have an EPC, we can guide you on what is needed.

We can then introduce you to chartered surveyors and property advisors, Breakey Nuttall, who can help you to comply the regulations.

Further information

For further information, you can read our article "What is an EPC? (a must read for landlords!)".

You can find out more detail about energy assessments on the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government's website, here.

Contact

For more information on whether you need an EPC, contact us on 0161 684 6951, or make an enquiry.

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Please note that the information and opinions contained in this article are not intended to be comprehensive, nor to provide legal advice. No responsibility for its accuracy or correctness is assumed by Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd or any of its members or employees. Professional legal advice should be obtained before taking, or refraining from taking, any action as a result of this article.

This blog was posted some time ago and its contents may now be out of date. For the latest legal position relating to these issues, get in touch with the author - or make an enquiry now.