1) From the 1st October 2008, all domestic landlords offering property for rent will be required to provide prospective tenants with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) prior to marketing the property.
Where the tenant is in place before the 1st of October and remains in residence, no EPC will be needed. If the rental agreement is renewed, again no EPC will be required. The requirement only kicks in when there is a new tenant. Landlords are then legally required to produce an EPC to show free of charge to all prospective tenants. The tenant who moves in must be given a copy of the EPC before the rental agreement is signed.
Where the landlord employs an agent, the agent can make arrangements for the EPC, but the responsibility for any breaches lies with the Landlord. Domestic EPC non-compliance will result in a fine of £200.
2) From the 14th December 2007, all homes in England and Wales to be marketed for sale need a Home Information Pack (HIP), which includes a home energy rating (otherwise known as an EPC).
