Since 1 October 2008, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is required whenever a building in the social or private rented sectors is let to a new tenant. Landlords must provide an EPC free
of charge to prospective tenants at the earliest opportunity and must provide a copy of the EPC to the person who takes up the tenancy.
EPCs for rented properties are valid for 10 years and can be reused as many times as required within
that period. It is not necessary to commission a new EPC each time there is a change of tenant.
An EPC is not required for a rented property that was occupied prior to 1st October 2008 and which continues to be occupied after that date by the same tenant.
More information
The government department responsible has produced a very good guide to EPCs and rented accommodation. You can download it here.
