EPC in Dorset
ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATES (EPC)
An EPC is a legally required document when offering to sell or rent a residential property; it has a prescribed format and will provide an image of the energy efficiency of the property at the time of the inspection and give a rating, which will enable it to be compared on a like for like basis with other properties.
Additionally an Environmental Impact Rating will be provided which will give an estimated indication of the carbon emissions produced. The certificate will also provide a series of energy saving improvement measures indicating the typical savings that could be achieved if the recommendations were implemented and their effect on the Energy Efficiency & Environmental Impact Ratings.
Contact us today if you need an EPC or advice regarding the legislation.
IMPORTANT NEW LEGISLATION
Energy Efficiency in the Private Rental Sector
There are new laws coming into effect from the 1st April 2016, which will affect domestic private landlords?
Key Facts
Tenants’ Energy Efficiency Improvements
What are the reinforcements to tenant rights?
From the 1st April 2016 all domestic tenants have the right to request energy efficiency improvements for the properties they rent.
Can a residential private landlord refuse a tenants request for Energy Efficiency Improvements?
Yes. Your tenant must show that improvements can be installed with no upfront cost to you. Don’t forget there is likely to be a scheme available, either a development or replacement for Green Deal, which is intended to facilitate energy efficiency without the need for upfront costs.
Who does this apply to?
This new regulation applies to domestic properties let under a longer term assured and regulated tenancies.
Are there any exemptions?
If the building is exempt from an EPC then you are not required to provide consent. Landlords are also exempt if required third-party consent, such as planning, for work cannot be obtained.
Are there any penalties for non compliance?
Yes. If a tenant considers that a landlord hasn’t complied with the regulations, they can take the case to a First-Tier Tribunal General Regulatory Chamber.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)
What are the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards?
From the 1st April 2018 changes to legislation will make it unlawful to let residential properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a rating of F or G.
What are the key dates?
April 2018- the regulations will only apply upon the granting of a new tenancy to a new or existing tenant.
April 2020- The regulation will apply to ALL privately rented property which is required to have an EPC.
Are there any penalties for non-compliance?
Yes. Failing to comply with a compliance notice could result in a fine up to £5000.
Why is it being enforced?
This new legislation attempts to ensure that all tenants enjoy a right to live in an energy efficient home. It also contributes to the UK legislative targets of reducing CO2 emissions for all buildings to around zero by 2050.
Are there any exemptions?
Yes landlords are exempt if:
- They have carried out all cost-effective energy efficiency improvements.
- Measures Identified by Green Deal or an alternative government scheme are not cost effective.
- If third-party consents are not available (consent from tenants, planning authority etc).
What Next?
Given the risks to landlords it is clear that a full understanding of energy efficiency is required for your property assets, in order to see if you are meeting MEES. We would be happy to meet with you to discuss how this legislation might effect you .
Contact us
Please do not hesitate to get in touch. You can call or e-mail using the details below:
Mobile: 07889 093936
E-Mail: abenergyassessors@hotmail.com