Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards For Rented Properties To Be Introduced In 2018

In a move which is proposed to improve the living standards for those residing in rented accommodation, the Government have confirmed that as of April 1^st 2018, there will be a new minimum standard EPC rating for rented properties and there will be fines for Landlords who fall short…

Ever since the introduction of the ill-fated Home Information Pack (HIP) all the way back in 2007, it has been a legal requirement for the sale or rental of properties in England and Wales to have an Energy Performance Certificate.

The purpose of the certificate is to help potential buyers and tenants identify how energy efficient a property is, along with recommendations as to what could be done to improve the property.

The EPC rating is displayed prominently with all our property adverts but we could probably count on one hand over the years the number of enquiries we’ve had, particularly from buyers, to see the full EPC and take an interest in the recommendations provided.

Whilst a higher rated EPC may make a slight difference to a buyer who is mulling over two favourite properties, we tend to find that most of our clients aren’t initially fully aware of what the EPC is and what bearing it might have on their decision.

However, this could all be about to change as the Government is set to impose strict guidelines in April 2018 which means that all rented properties now must carry an overall rating of at least an “E”.

As of the 1^st April next year, all properties with new tenancies and those being renewed must have a minimum rating of “E” or the Landlord could find themselves on the wrong end of a £4,000 fine.

If the property does not reach this minimum standard, it is the responsibility of the Landlord to arrange and pay for the necessary changes to increase the efficiency to the new acceptable standard.

For all existing tenancies, the new regulation will come in to play in 2020.

The act will most likely impact older properties that do not benefit from double glazing, loft insulation or don’t have cavity walls.

If a property does undergo works to improve its efficiency, a new EPC must be obtained as current Energy Performance Certificates cannot be updated.

If you have a property that does fall short of the new minimum requirement, the five most common upgrades that tend to provide the biggest improvement in efficiency are:

• Updating windows to UPVC double glazing
• Adding/increasing the loft insulation
• Upgrade the boiler
• Investing in cavity wall insulation
• Cutting out draughts

For any advice and recommendations on what you can do to improve the energy performance rating of your property, or one that you may be thinking of purchasing, call or email our expert Lettings team today on:

Tel: 01332 294 296

Email: lettings@hannells.co.uk

It is estimated that as many as one in six rented properties will not meet the new guidelines so it would be wise to start taking action now to avoid any hefty fees when the new guidelines come in to force in April next year.

For a more comprehensive overview of the new guidelines, including exemptions, click HERE.

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