Landlords need to show energy rating certificates for premises

1 October 2008

As from 1 October, rented business premises will require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), detailing the building’s energy efficiency.

The aim of the new EU regulation is to provide tenants with an idea of the likely energy and fuel costs of the premises.

Landlords need to pay for the certificates, which show the efficiency of the office or factory when the lighting, and heating and ventilation systems are switched on, and which evaluate the effects of any insulation and double-glazing and the performance of boilers and appliances.

The Department for Communities and Local Government said that the certificates cost in the region of £250 for small premises and up to £2,000 for large buildings.

Landlords who do not produce an EPC could face a fine.

An EPC must be provided free of charge by landlords when written information about the building is provided in response to a request for information from the prospective tenant; when a viewing is conducted; and, if neither of those occur, before the landlord enters into a contract to let their property.