Get set for law change on energy performance

Nov 18 2008 by Francesca Craggs, The Journal

DURHAM County Council’s Trading Standards Service is working to ensure that business properties are geared up for the law change which requires information on the energy performance of buildings to be available to those renting or buying.

All buildings – when sold, rented or newly built – now require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) showing energy and carbon efficiency ratings on a scale of A to G with A the most efficient.

Phillip Holman, the county council’s head of trading standards, said: “Home Information Packs have been phased into the domestic property market and homes already require an EPC. This new legislation extends this requirement to other sales and rentals and operators of public buildings.

“We are keen to work with business to ensure they meet their legal obligations to provide the information to buyers or tenants. In the current challenging economic climate, it is important that both consumers and business are provided with this important information about property running costs and the impact on the environment, to ensure an informed choice can be made when purchasing or renting property.”

Prospective buyers of both residential and commercial property must have access to information about heating and lighting costs and carbon dioxide emissions before deciding whether to enter into a contract.

As well as the EPC, a recommendation report is required which shows how to improve the property’s energy efficiency by installing double glazing, improving insulation or fitting a more efficient heating system.

The EPC must be given to new tenants but there is no requirement to carry out the work recommended in the report. If it is done, another certificate can be issued with a better rating.

The landlord, seller or agent will need to employ an accredited energy assessor or become qualified to do assessments.

An EPC will not be needed for rented properties occupied before October 1, 2008, and continue to be occupied by the same tenant. Once a new tenancy begins, an EPC will be required but there are exemptions for university halls of residence and individual room rentals in a shared house.

The new requirements also cover buildings visited by the public such as council buildings, hospitals, schools and sports centres where the useable floor area exceeds 1,000sq m.

They are required to have a Display Energy Certificate, indicating an energy-efficiency rating and carbon dioxide emissions, together with an advisory report on how improvements can be made.

Businesses based in the county can obtain further information from Durham County Council Trading Standards Service on (0191) 383-3589.

Information is also available from the Department of Communities and Local Government helpline on (0845) 365-2468 and websites www.communities.gov.uk or www.direct.gov.uk/epc