Energy Performance Certificate - 1 October 08

1st October marks the final roll-out of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) to all buildings when the certificate will be extended to rented homes, commercial properties under 2,500m2 and all remaining homes for sale.

This includes those homes that have been on the market before the introduction of Home Information Packs (HIPs). Sellers of homes who have not had to prepare a HIP will need to commission an EPC as soon as possible so they are to be able to comply with their duties in relation to EPCs from 1 October 2008. From that date they will be under a duty to make an EPC available to a prospective purchaser at the earliest opportunity, and certainly when they provide any information in writing or when viewing takes place. An EPC will have to be made available before exchange of contracts in all cases, and given to the purchaser on completion.