An Energy Performance Certificate indicates how energy-efficient your property is.
It contains information about energy usage, along with recommendations to reduce energy usage and save money. The energy efficiency rating runs from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
An Energy Performance Certificate is valid for 10 years.
An Energy Performance Certificate must be commissioned whenever a property is built, sold or rented.
The government believes that choices to buy or rent a property are influenced by its energy performance rating. In fact, it is illegal to let a property that has an rating below E.
For these reasons, sellers and landlords are required to:
Some properties are exempt from the above requirements and include, amongst others:
You could receive a penalty charge notice if you fail to comply with your obligations. The penalty may vary depending on whether the property is a dwelling or a commercial property.
The enforcement authority may instead take a light touch approach and give you some time to comply. However, it is always better to comply in the first place to avoid the risk of reputational damage.