EPC’s should be at grade ‘E’ or Higher!

Since April 1st 2020, most rental properties in Wales should have an Energy Performance Certificate displaying a rating of E or higher.

If this is not the case, the property is likely failing to meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard requirements set by the UK Government.

An Energy Performance Certificate gives detailed information about your property’s energy efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions.

Landlords who continue to let out rental properties below an E are risking operating illegally and should consider how to secure energy efficiency improvements without delay as they may be fined £5000 at present.

This may go up in the future to as much as £30,000 along with a proposed minimum EPC rating of C in Wales from 2025.

There are many benefits to improving energy efficiency for both landlord and tenant that include:

✔ Cheaper energy bills and added comfort for your tenants

✔ Potential increase in the value of your rental property

✔ Reduced impact on our environment

✔ Less damp and condensation

✔ Better health for the tenant

To receive an EPC, you must have an Energy Assessment Survey carried out at your property.

Your Domestic Energy Assessor will perform internal and external inspections to determine how energy efficient your building is and what possible level of efficiency is achievable if improvements are made.

Some of the things your EPC assessor will take a look at are:

• Boilers and heating systems
• Fireplaces
• Lighting
• Renewable energy devices (solar panels etc)
• Roofs, walls and insulation
• The building measurements
• The year the property was built
  Windows

Once your EPC has been issued, it is then valid for ten years. Once it runs out, you do not need to get a new one unless you are entering a new tenancy with new tenants or selling the property.

If you have any questions or would like to know more then please contact us for more information and we’ll be glad to assist.