From 1 October 2008 it will be a legal requirement for all landlords to have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for their property before it can be let.

An EPC assesses the energy performance of a property and will need to be carried out by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor to ensure that it meets all legal requirements. Once complete it will be valid for a period of 10 years.

It will be a legal offence for landlords to let a property without an EPC from 1 October 2008.

Morgan Randall are able to arrange for an EPC to be carried out on your behalf in order to avoid any delays letting your property.

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 report which will list the potential rating that your home could achieve, if you made the recommended changes. The report lists:

* suggested improvements (such as fitting loft insulation)
* the approximate cost
* possible cost savings per year if the improvements are made
* how this would change the energy and carbon emission rating of the property

You can use this information to:

* cut your fuel bills
* improve energy performance in your home
* help cut carbon emissions
* help you choose a more energy efficient home to rent or buy

You do not have to act on the recommendations contained in the recommendation report. However, if you decide to do so, then it could make your property more attractive for sale or rent by making it more energy efficient.

Does everyone need an EPC?

The EPC is required by law when a building is constructed, sold or put up for rent.

Sellers or buyers of homes
All sellers of homes need to ensure that they provide a Home Information Pack which includes an EPC for potential buyers.

An EPC must be made available to a potential homebuyer – free of charge.

Builders
An EPC needs to be provided to buyers of newly built properties.

Landlords
If you are a landlord, you’ll need to make an EPC available to prospective tenants the first time you let a home after 1 October 2008. An EPC is only required for a property which is self-contained, and is valid for 10 years.

An EPC isn’t required when a tenant rents a room and shares facilities.

Tenants
If you are interested in renting a property then an EPC must be made available to you free of charge. An EPC is only required for a property which is self-contained, and is valid for 10 years.

If you are a prospective tenant, an EPC isn’t required when you rent a room and share facilities.