Homes to let have to meet stringent eco regulations

LANDLORDS in Halton have only one year remaining to meet a new energyfriendly target for the homes they rent or face a restriction on granting new tenancies.

In 2016, the Government declared all tenanted homes must achieve a minimum of an E rating in their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

Landlords in Runcorn and Widnes whose buildings fail to reach this standard by April 2018 will no longer be able to offer a tenancy to new tenants. Those who let properties with an EPC rating below or close to the required rating must ensure works are carried out to bring their homes up to scratch over the next 12 months.

Allison Thompson, managing director at property specialist Leaders, said: “Failure to achieve a minimum of an E rating will leave landlords unable to let a property to a new tenant, while some recent legal updates have suggested they could also be prevented from renewing an existing tenancy.

“As the deadline gets even closer, we expect tradespeople capable of carrying out eco-friendly home improvements to be in extremely high demand, so landlords would be wise to have work carried out sooner rather than later.

“The good news for landlords whose properties fall below the minimum standard is that there are plenty of ways to upgrade a property’s energy performance, including adding insulation to the walls and ceiling, draught-proofing, installing a new boiler and repairing or replacing doors and windows.”

Thousands of older properties across the UK – particularly those that date back to the Edwardian and Victorian periods – are expected to fail to reach an E rating, making green improvements a must.

Allison added: “Although some landlords will be required to spend significant sums on improving their homes in the next 12 months, it’s worth remembering the benefits of doing so.

“These include potentially enjoying significantly lower gas and electricity bills for years to come.”