Energy ratings threat to leased pubs

Related tags Energy performance certificate Renting

2018: leasehold pubs will have to be upgraded or face removal from rental market

Thousands of licensees may have to take steps to increase energy-efficiency at their pubs if they are to be leased after 2018, or face being removed from the rental market.

That’s the implications of the Energy Act, which states that properties with an F or G energy performance certificate (EPC) rating will no longer be allowed to be let from 2018.

It means that landlords will either have to upgrade the energy rating by 2018 or remove the property from the rental market.

It also gives warning to anyone looking to lease a property with a term that will last longer than 2018. “Licensees should ensure that the property is either at least E-rated or ensure that the landlord will upgrade the energy rating at their own expense,” said Andrew Whelan, director at EPCforProperty, which provides energy certificates for pubs.

The much anticipated date for the new regulations for energy performance certificates (EPC) has also been confirmed — 6 April 2012. It means that property agents will have to issue an EPC within seven days of the property being marketed, instead of the current 28 days, or face a visit from trading standards officers.

However the need to attach a full EPC with all marketing material has been toned down so that only the first page will need to be added.

EPCs, compulsory since 2008, show the energy efficiency of a property and how it could be improved. Licensees should have an EPC before they market a pub, but experts say sellers are waiting until a pub is under offer before paying for an assessment, which costs around £300 to £500 for a typical pub.

Whelan said: “The changes for EPCs have already been delayed a number of times and agents will have no excuses if they are not ready by 6 April.”