Lettings: Energy certificate deadline approaching

by Mieka Smiles, The Journal

AN ENERGY saving deadline is looming for landlords. The landlord of any new residential letting will be required to provide an energy performance certificate (EPC) to prospective tenants from October 1.

The results of an Energy Performance Certificate – similar to that needed to market a home under the new HIPs scheme – will become another one of the factors tenants may want to consider when choosing a rental property.

This may mean that landlords feel more pressure to put energy saving measures into action.

Andrew Hartley, head of Pattinson’s rental department, said: “Rental properties are covered by the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations which was laid before Parliament at the end of March 2007. Unlike the Home Information Pack regulations for residential home sales, it is unlikely their will be any delays and the process is relatively simple.

“Once obtained the certificate will be valid for 10 years but can be renewed earlier if the landlord wishes to reflect any improvements made.

“However, there will be no legal requirement for a new EPC to be issued if landlords have upgraded their property in response to earlier recommendations.”

All lettings within the 10-year valid period will be able to make use of the same Energy Performance Certificate, but the law states a landlord must show it to any prospective tenant.

The first time that an EPC will have to be produced is when a new tenant moves in to the property. The rules will not apply to lease renewals by sitting tenants.

Mr Hartley added: “I would recommend that landlords ensure Energy Performance Certificates are produced for their rental properties sooner rather than later as is likely their will be a rush to conform with legislation prior to the October 2008 deadline.