Energy certificate now needed for homes

Landlords must now provide new tenants with a certificate to show the energy efficiency of their home.

The scheme, in force from today ( 1 October), requires buildings to be examined and rated from A to G on an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), allowing comparisons to be made between different properties.

Being rated 'A' puts a building in the most efficient category, while 'G' is the lowest grade. 'D' denotes the average up to now.

Landlords could face a succession of £200 fines if they fail to provide an EPC.

Buyers and sellers of homes also require one of the certificates, which include a report on suggested improvements and their costs, along with the savings that can be made.

National Landlords Association (NLA) media relations manager Steven Hilton told More Than Business News the directive would give greater choice to tenants when weighing up two properties.

"I don't think it is going to change the world - I don't think landlords are going to rush out and make energy improvements to their homes," he said.

"But it will help tenants see about fuel bills in advance and will provide more up front information, which is a good thing."

IMAGEPA