COVID-19 and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

COVID-19 and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

If you are considering selling or purchasing a property, we thought it would be useful to update you on the current legal requirements relating to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) including the recent changes in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is an EPC?

An EPC is a certificate, issued by an assessor, which shows information about the energy efficiency of a property. It should include details of the property, the efficiency rating (A to G), any recommendations to improve the energy efficiency of the property, the date it was issued, a reference number, and any Green Deal information.

When should I obtain an EPC?

Compulsory reasons for an EPC:

  • If you are selling or renting out a property (including the assignment of an existing lease);
  • If you have built a new property;
  • If you have significantly altered a property;

Optional reasons for an EPC:

  • If an existing property owner has done work to your property which will improve its energy efficient, and you want to be able to show this to others;
  • If your property is subject to a Green Deal plan.

Under Regulation 6 of the EPC Regulations, you are also required to produce the EPC to a prospective buyer or tenant. You are not required to obtain a new EPC each time there is a sale or new letting. As long as there is an existing, valid EPC for the property, then that EPC can be used.

For how long is an EPC valid?

An EPC is generally valid for 10 years from the date of issue. The expiry date will usually be included on the EPC.

You can retrieve an EPC from the government's website and check whether it is valid: https://www.epcregister.com/reportSearchAddressTerms.html?redirect=reportSearchAddressByPostcode

Do I need to achieve a minimum rating?

If you are a Landlord your property must have a rating of E or better in order for you to continue letting your property or let it to new tenants.

Are there any exemptions?

Some properties are exempt from this requirement for example religious properties, buildings earmarked for demolitiand or properties which do not have a roof or walls. You should check if your property falls into the 'exempt category' if you are commissioning an EPC.

COVID-19

On 2 April 2020, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) published guidance on meeting the regulatory requirement to secure a valid EPC when marketing a property during the COVID-19 outbreak:

The guidance states that:

  • The legal requirement to obtain an EPC before selling or letting a property remains in place.
  • EPC assessments should only be conducted in accordance with government advice on home moving during the COVID-19 outbreak
  • EPC assessments should only be carried out if they can be conducted safely.
  • If a property is vacant, an EPC can be carried out. If a property is occupied, parties must endeavour to agree that the transaction can be delayed so that an EPC assessment can proceed when stay-at-home measures are no longer in place. No assessments should take place if any person in the property is showing symptoms, self-isolating or being shielded.

If you are considering buying or selling a property and you have any legal queries or you're concerned about the effects of COVID-19 then please contact our dedicated Client Relations Team who would be happy to assist. Contact us on 01603 693500 or email us using the 'Make an enquiry' form.

*This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or other professional advice.