Energy performance certificates for landlords

Some rental properties in England and Wales are required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) prepared by an accredited Energy Assessor. An EPC is required for a property which is self-contained (for example there is a joint agreement). It is not needed when a tenant rents a room and shares facilities (for example there is an individual agreement).

An EPC will offer opportunities for landlords to differentiate their property from their competitors and gain a distinct marketing advantage.

The energy efficiency and environmental impact of your property will be rated on a scale from A to G (where A is the most efficient and G the least efficient). Current running costs for heating, hot water and lighting will also be shown on the certificate, together with a list of recommended energy saving improvements.

Find an accredited domestic energy assessor website

• Energy Performance Certificate National Register.
• Institute of Domestic Energy Assessors.
• National Energy Services.

Help and advice

A network of Energy Saving Trust advice centres operates across the UK. They provide impartial information on home energy efficiency and can advise you on any grants and offers that may be available to help you with the costs of installing measures.

To contact your local centre call 0800 512 012
They are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Making your properties energy efficient

Energy efficiency improvements cost less than you think. Central heating, insulation, and double glazing can increase the long-term value of your properties and make them more attractive to renters. What’s more, there are many grants available and they can reduce your income tax bills.

Here are some simple things you could do to improve the energy efficiency of your properties:

• Top up your loft insulation and insulate your walls. Your energy supplier is offering big discounts on prices for insulation right now - make the most of them.
• Update your heating system with a high-efficiency condensing boiler and effective heating controls.
• Take advantage of significant discounts and buy a new, more energy efficient washing machine, fridge or freezer.

Your tenants will benefit from lower running costs and a warm, comfortable living environment, making them more likely to stay longer in your property.

Energy efficiency improvements can also help you meet your legal requirements, whilst supporting your reputation as a landlord who takes the quality of their properties seriously and delivers a professional service for tenants.