With effect from 1st October 2008 Landlords will be obliged to provide an EPC to prospective tenants, so if you are letting for the first time or your property is coming up for re-let then action will be required soon.

The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) gives tenants information on the energy efficiency of their property.It gives the building a standard energy and carbon emission efficiency grade from "A" to "G", where is "A" is the best and with the average to date being "D/E".

The same criteria and calcuations will be used for all houses, in order that direct comparisons can be made between properties. They will include a recommendation report which will list the potential rating that the house could achieve if changes are made.
 
As these certificates will be valid for a period of ten years, it is of course advisable to make any improvements prior to the assessment being carried out. For example, fitting loft insulation, installing double glazing and something as simple as changing to energy efficient light bulbs can all improve your rating.

The EPC's can only be produced following a survey by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor, the average cost will be approximately £100.00.