Landlords / Letting Agents
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Private rented sector
In the private rented sector the requirement for EPCs is expected to come into force in October
2008. However, this may yet change.
Property that is owned by a landlord and is part of their rental property portfolio will be subject to energy assessment to establish the performance of the building in a similar way to residential domestic property.
Social housing sector
Right-to-buy and non-marketed sales and lettings, as found in the social sector, do not require a HIP, but do require an EPC. This is also likely to come into force in October 2008. However, properties that are marketed for sale to the public or to a section of the public will count as marketed sales. This includes those that are marketed to people on a waiting list or shared ownership resales that are offered on the open market.
Implications for social housing providers
The cost of a stand-alone certificate is estimated to be in the region of £70 plus VAT which the landlord is expected to cover. For the social housing sector, the responsibility lies with the individual local authorities and housing associations. However, Communities and Local Government (CLG) would encourage a different approach, for example incorporating the cost of the certificate into stock surveys. The cost of the certificate will therefore depend on the approach taken.