Its finally arrived. EPC used to be just had if you were selling your house, the certificate was all part of the Home Information Pack 'HIP'.

But not any more. From the 1st October 2008 every landlord in England and Wales will have to have a EPC. The cetificate lasts for 10 years.

In terms os student rental properties students can ask their landlord to see the certificate which resembles a energy certificate found on fridges etc. The certificate will give the student an idea of how much energy will be used/lost or preserved in the property, by means of double glazing and insulated door strips.

The certificates can vary in price from £40 - £120 depending on where you look. Failure to have a cetificate could result in a £200 fine. Landlords can commision a Domestic Energy Assessor to carry out the certificate.

There will be grants available for some Student Property Rentals, and hopefully student accommodation in York and Newcastle to name a few will benefit from this. The idea is to make a more efficient property and this can only be a good thing when energy prices are so high.

By visiting this url www.energysavingtrust.org.uk you can carry out a free report on your student property.

So watch out students pick your property wisely, and look for  energy efficient student accommodation in York and Newcastle.