On EASCO's Facebook page April 15th:Cotterdale wrote:Has anyone had any news about the Energy Performance Certificate do we need to get one or wait?
AFAIK the legal point being argued on our behalf by EASCO is that the original legislation refers to places occupied by "tenants", which would appear to exclude holiday lettings. Aside from the legal technicalities, EASCO have also made the point that the application of EPC requirements for short term holiday accommodation is, in so many words, a load of bo££ocks. But that's taking a common sense stance which is a fairly pointless exercise when it comes to government bureaucracy (hence beating up the bureaucrats with the legal point).On the issue of Energy Performance Certificates, the DCLG are proving intransigent and uncommunicative. They're still sticking to their view that they have the right to insist on EPCs under existing legislation. EASCO has submitted a freedom of Information request to actually see the legal advice on which they have based the decision. We've also written to Tourism Minister John Penrose MP asking for some political intervention in a measure that makes no sense and runs contrary to government policy to reduce red tape.
There's nothing new from VE since March 14th, but as a government funded organisation they're not allowed to lobby the government in situations where their members' interests are at odds with government intentions.