Energy Performance Certificates
Since 1st October 2008, all landlords with Buy-to-Let properties in England & Wales are now required by law to provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for new tenants. The legislation extends to Scottish properties from early 2009.
'So what are Energy Performance Certificates?'
EPCs provide information on a property's efficiency and environmental impact, helping tenants to identify properties with higher energy efficiency and lower fuel bills. An EPC uses a scale of A-G (A being the most efficient, G the least efficient), and gives information on the property's impact on the environment.
'Why have EPCs?'
In a competitive rental market, you need to make your properties as attractive as possible to potential tenants. Now that every tenant has the right to view an EPC for a property, ensuring that you have this certificate available is crucial for marketing your properties - and since October this is now compulsory. Providing an EPC for your properties will ensure that you're in line with legislation, help you keep ahead of your competition, and give potential tenants peace of mind.
'How do I get an Energy Performance Certificate?'
Bradford & Bingley have teamed up with Connells Survey & Valuation Ltd who are one of the largest residential surveying companies in the UK, to give you a service providing EPCs. Connells use their own Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) qualified Chartered Surveyors plus they have access to numerous qualified DEAs from other EPC providers on their panel.
If you have more than one property (even if the mortgages are with different lenders) you get the convenience of ordering all of your EPCs from one place.
'How much will an Energy Performance Certificate cost?'
Ordering your EPC with Bradford & Bingley will save you money. Before 31st December 2008, you will be able to purchase your EPC for £80 + VAT. After this date any certificates purchased through Bradford & Bingley will cost £85 + VAT.
Also, as a special offer to Bradford & Bingley customers, if you buy 10 or more certificates, you can get them for the discounted price of £75 + VAT each.
'How do I apply?'
There are two quick and easy routes for you to take:
- Apply online
- Call Connells on 0844 257 8680
Once you have applied, Connells will send you a confirmation email and as soon as payment has been received an appropriate DEA appointment is booked. Subject to getting access to the property, the EPC should be returned to you via email within 3 working days.
Remember - you can apply for your Energy Performance Certificate at any time - you don't have to wait until you have new tenants.
