Moving into a rented home in Wales involves more than signing a tenancy agreement. Tenants have the right to receive key information about a property’s energy performance before or when they move in, and understanding Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) helps you assess heating costs and efficiency. This guide explains what landlords must supply, how to check an EPC, when to raise concerns, and practical steps if you arrive without a valid certificate. It uses plain language for renters and includes the official forms and enforcement routes you may need, including how to contact the tribunal or Welsh authorities. Keep notes and copies of any documents you receive when moving in to protect your rights.
What is an EPC and why it matters
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) summarises a home’s energy efficiency and likely running costs. It gives a rating from A (very efficient) to G (poor) and includes practical recommendations. Tenants use the EPC to compare properties and to understand likely heating costs; landlords should supply the certificate to prospective tenants or at the start of a tenancy. For official guidance and to look up a certificate see GOV.UK: find an energy performance certificate[1].
What landlords in Wales must provide
Landlords are required to make key information available to tenants, including EPC details where applicable. Relevant legislation for residential tenancies includes the Housing Act 1988 and older Rent Act provisions, which set wider tenancy rules and tenant protections; consult the official legislation for full details.[2]
- Ask the landlord or agent for the EPC certificate or the official reference number and keep a copy.
- Check the EPC’s estimated heating and insulation notes and ask about likely costs or planned improvements.
- Request any related service charge, safety certificate or maintenance information in writing before you sign.
If you move in without an EPC
If you arrive without an EPC, start by asking the landlord or letting agent in writing for the certificate or reference number and a clear explanation. If the landlord does not provide the information, you can raise the issue with local Welsh authorities or use tribunal routes for formal resolutions; the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) handles many residential property disputes in England and Wales.[3]
Immediate actions
- Contact your landlord or letting agent in writing and request the EPC within 14 days.
- Keep copies of messages, dates and any replies as evidence you can present if needed.
- If there is no lawful response, consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal or getting advice from Rent Smart Wales.
FAQ
- Am I entitled to see an EPC before I move in?
- Yes. Landlords must provide an EPC to prospective tenants, usually before or at the start of a tenancy; if they do not, ask for it in writing and keep the record.[1]
- What if the EPC rating is poor?
- You can ask the landlord about planned improvements and consider this when agreeing the tenancy; you may also raise the matter with local enforcement bodies or the tribunal if it affects habitability.[2]
- Where can I apply if the landlord refuses to provide an EPC?
- Start with a written request, then contact Rent Smart Wales or the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for advice and potential enforcement.[3]
How-To
- Ask for the EPC certificate or the official reference number before you sign the tenancy.
- Check the certificate online using the GOV.UK search or review the document details for the address and rating.[1]
- Request clarification from the landlord on any items affecting heating, insulation or anticipated costs.
- If you cannot get a response, contact Rent Smart Wales or prepare evidence to submit to the tribunal.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Always get and keep a copy of the EPC and any responses from your landlord before moving in.
- EPCs help you estimate heating costs and highlight possible repairs or improvements.
- Use Rent Smart Wales and the First-tier Tribunal for official advice and enforcement in Wales.
