What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

The government is committed to comply with EU Directive 2002/91/EC, which aims to promote improvements in the energy performance of buildings.

The EU directive requires an energy performance certificate for all dwellings at the time of sale/rental. The certificate will give prospective purchasers/tenants an easy to read guide to the likely energy costs of occupying the property in a similar way that current 'white goods' have an efficiency label.

Domestic energy consumption causes 25% of national CO2 emissions, and heating uses 90% of energy in the home. Improvement in the energy efficiency of our homes is therefore important in reducing our overall emissions.

The Landlord of any new residential letting will be required to provide an energy performance certificate (EPC) to prospective tenants from 1st October 2008.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. 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.