New energy efficiency regulations come into effect over the next few months that affect landlords. The government wants all rental properties to be more energy efficient, so it is cracking down on landlords who rent out properties that don’t meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards.
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Private landlords will soon no longer be able to let properties with an Energy Performance Certificate of F or G. By April next year, properties in the private rental sector must be rated E or above. Landlords whose properties do not meet the minimum energy efficiency standards have less than a year to take necessary steps to make their properties more energy efficient. If they fail to make the necessary changes, they face fines of £5,000 to £150,000.
Property Assessments
Industry experts are advising landlords to start assessing their property portfolios very soon. If changes and improvements need to be made, now is a good time to plan works.
Exempt Properties
The new rules apply to all properties let under a shorthold or assured tenancy agreement. Properties that don’t need an EPC are exempt. Bedsits do not need an individual EPC, but the building will need to comply with the rules before bedsits within can be let out.
Listed buildings are exempt insofar as improvements cannot be made that will alter the character and appearance of the building. In other words, you can’t install UPVC double-glazing on a Grade II listed building.
Older properties are likely to be the worst affected.