Energy Performance Certificates introduced for Social Landlords
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) have been introduced to measure the energy efficiency of a building, with the purpose of improving the energy performance of buildings across the EU. An EPC includes recommendations on ways to improve the home's energy efficiency to save the householder money and help the environment.
EPCs are mandatory for all homes privately bought and sold, and from October 2008 the requirement is also expected to extend to privately rented homes and the social housing sector including all lettings and right-to-buys.
This has significant implications on Local Authorities and Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) who will have to produce and provide Energy Performance Certificates when renting or selling homes. This will allow occupiers and investors to review and compare the energy efficiency of buildings. The government has already made some progress in improving the energy efficiency of social housing through the Decent Homes standard, which requires all homes to have both effective insulation and efficient heating.
The energy efficiency rating is calculated when an accredited Energy Assessor visits a property to collect the relevant data, including the date, construction and location of the house and relevant fittings (heating systems, insulation or double glazing, for example). The results show which homes are the most energy efficient, i.e. have the lowest fuel bills. As concern for energy efficiency grows, this is anticipated to help householders to run their homes as efficiently as possible at the same time as keeping energy consumption to a minimum.
PH Jones is a specialist social housing contractor and is currently advising local authorities and Registered Social Landlords of their obligations following the EPC requirement. If you are an existing social housing client or an interested Registered Social Landlord and you would like further information please email Jenny Neville.jenny.neville@phjones.co.uk
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