Energy Performance Certificates changes for self-catering operators

The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) changed its guidance on the requirements for Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which are due to be implemented from 30 June 2011. According to this new guidance, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be obtained for self-catering properties that are rented out as holiday lets for 20 weeks or more in any 12 month period.

Trade Associations such as EASCO and the Tourism Alliance are continuing to lobby against this requirement on the basis that the regulations do not cover self-catering properties and, as such, the change in guidance has no legal basis.

It is worth noting that Local Government Regulation, the agency responsible for the implementation of the regulations, agrees with industry view that the regulations do not apply to self-catering properties. They have sent advice to Trading Standards Officers within councils (who are responsible for the enforcement of the regulations) that concludes: “It is Local Government Regulation’s and Trading Standards Institute’s view that until this requirement is clearly specified in the EPC Regulations there is no obligation on a holiday let owner to have an Energy Performance Certificate.”

While this advice is not a definitive legal position, it suggests that Local Trading Standard Offices will not be pursuing operators if the matter is not resolved before the 30 June 2011 deadline.

You can contact your local Trading Standards Officer or visit the DCLG FAQ Document for further information.