Rental law change: Rental property must be energy efficient
What does this mean for landlords?
Ultimately the changes will make it unlawful from April 2018 to let homes in England and Wales which do not achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate rating of ‘E’.
When do changes affect landlords now?
With effect from 1st April 2016 tenants will be able to request consent from their landlords to carry out energy efficiency improvements to privately rented properties. The landlord will not be able to unreasonably refuse consent. It will, however, be the responsibility of the tenants to ensure that the works are funded and the intention is that no upfront costs should fall on the landlord, unless the landlord agrees to contribute.
What is Fenn Wright’s advice to landlords?
Joseph Hall, Fenn Wright letting agents’ head of business development adds: “This is the first step towards the changes coming in April 2018, which will make it unlawful for landlords to make new lets and renewals of tenancies in a property with an EPC of F or G. From April 2020 this law will apply to all existing tenancies – meaning if there is an EPC in place which shows that the property is an F or G then it must not be let at all; otherwise the landlord is liable to penalties.
“It is also rumoured – but not so far confirmed – that the minimum standard is likely to rise to a D rating by 2025 and a C Rating in 2030.
“It is important that landlords are aware of the these changes so they can start to make improvements to their rental properties now, or allow their tenants to.”
How can I make my rental property more energy efficient?
Fenn Wright can advise their landlords on how to improve the energy efficiency of rental properties and explain the detail of the law changes.
For more information about renting your property with Fenn Wright, please get in touch with your local branch or visit our website and request a free valuation and marketing report.
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