Energy Performance Certificates are now needed

From 1 October 2008, by law, all rented properties require Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) to be available on letting.

The purpose of the EPC is to show prospective tenants the energy performance of the building they are planning to occupy. The EPC must be provided free of charge. The EPC shows the energy efficiency rating (relating to running costs) and the Environmental Impact rating (relating to C02 emissions rating) of the property. They are shown on an A – G rating scale similar to those used for fridges and other electrical appliances;     The certificate will be accompanied by a recommendation report that contains recommendations on how to improve the building’s energy efficiency. However, there is no statutory requirement to carry out any of the recommended measures.

Landlords will need to give basic details of the EPC score on marketing and when a property is let make the certificate available to tenants (in electronic format from a central website or a paper copy).

If you are looking for properties landlords should have given details of the EPC on the advertising material - if there is none available ask them to get one done.

Look for the icon on adverts on this site

these properties show the EPC graphs and some link to the full EPC.

If you are a landlord and want more information look at the Energy Performance Certificates page in the Help for Owners section. First click Landlords on the menu above.