EPC Regulations since April 2018

EPC Regulations since April 2018

October, 2018

Since April 2018, landlords of privately rented domestic property must ensure that their properties reach at least an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E before granting a new occupation contract to new or existing contract holder.

This means, it is unlawful to create a new occupation contract from April 2018 if it scores a G or F rating (unless there is an application exemption). A civil penalty of up to £4,000 will be imposed for breaches.

What if my property scores below an ‘E’ rating?

If your property scores a G or F rating, please pull up your EPC report. Firstly, look at the number score allocated to your property. It may be that your property only falls short of the E rating by a few points. If so, some simple measures may be all that is required to increase your score. Please look at under the ‘recommendations’ section on your report for ways to increase the energy efficiency of your property. These may include some low-cost recommendations such as:

  • Install low energy lighting (i.e. low energy bulbs throughout the house)
  • Increase loft insulation
  • Install a hot water cylinder jacket
  • Install a hot water cylinder thermostat
  • Install heating controls (room thermostat)
 
The report recommendations may also include some higher spend items such as:
 
  • Install condensing boiler
  • Internal or external wall insulation
  • Floor insulation
  • Double glazing throughout
  • Solar photovoltaic panels
  • Solar water heating
 
Once you have carried out the improvements in your home you will need to organise a new EPC assessment.
 
*** 5 year EPC Exemption
 
A landlord can apply for a 5 year EPC Exemption in certain circumstances i.e. cost of work is not cost neutral, works will have a detrimental impact on the fabric of the property, works will cause the property to be devalued etc. Please click on the following link for a full explanation:
 
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/private-rented-sector-minimum-energy-efficiency-standard-exemptions/guidance-on-prs-exemptions-and-exemptions-register-evidence-requirements