The Government has issued updated guidance in relation to energy assessments in England and the current COVID-19 restrictions.
This states that the legal requirement to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before selling or letting a property remains in place. Similarly the requirements for other energy assessments including Display Energy Certificates (DECs) and Air Conditioning Energy Inspections (ACEIs) also remain in place.
The guidance continues that energy assessments can continue to be undertaken in both domestic and non-domestic properties but should only be conducted in accordance with the following:
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Government has published guidance on the new national restrictions which apply from 5 November – this guidance explains the measures that will help everyone to stay safe as the country continues to respond to the challenges of coronavirus. Please see in particular the advice around going to work where the work cannot be done at home and the workplace is open, staying safe when you leave home and whilst at work.
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Government advice on working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19) – this advice supports employers, employees and the self-employed understand how to work safely during the coronavirus pandemic. Particular attention should be paid to the specific guidance in relation to work carried out in people’s homes.
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Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – this advice supports those who wish to move home, to conduct the key activities around moving home safely.
Protecting everyone
Where it is possible to conduct an assessment safely, assessors should communicate with clients prior to any visit to discuss how the work will be carried out to minimise risk for all parties.
No work should be carried out in a household which is isolating because one or more family members has symptoms unless it is to remedy a direct risk to the safety of the household. Similar requirements apply to those that have been instructed to self isolate by track and trace.
When working in a household where somebody is shielding or is clinically vulnerable, but has not been asked to shield, for example, the home of someone over 70, prior arrangements should be made with vulnerable people to avoid any face-to-face contact.
Landlords should consult tenants on whether it is appropriate for an assessment to be conducted, based on the tenant’s personal situation. Private landlords and letting agents should not conduct assessments in properties where tenants are symptomatic or self-isolating, or where it has been determined that they are clinically extremely vulnerable and are shielding. Landlords should also seek further information on coronavirus (COVID-19) and the enforcement of standards in rented properties.
If you are unable to undertake an assessment for which you have been booked, you should seek to reschedule your appointment when it is safe to do so.