In March this year, specialist Landlord Insurer Just Landlords commissioned research into the awareness of changes to Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations, which revealed a surprising lack of awareness.
The new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) came into effect 1st April this year, and now require all rental properties on new lets or renewals to have a minimum EPC rating of E. Specialist buy-to-let mortgage broker Commercial Trust Limited has reiterated the consequences of not complying. If the MEES are not met, then landlords may find themselves with a maximum fine of £5,000.
From April 2020, these standards will apply to all tenancies.
The results from Just Landlord’s research showed that only 4% of the 400 landlords and tenants surveyed were aware of the new legislation.
80% responded that they were unaware that an EPC could be a clear indication of the environmental impact a property is having.
A guidance document on the MEES, in accordance with the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 has been made available by the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy, to help landlords improve the energy efficiency of their property.
It provides advice on how to make relevant improvements to a home, in order to provide a better EPC. The document also makes suggestions on how a landlord can consider the cost effectiveness of particular improvements.
Some exemptions and exclusions may apply, which are outlined by this document. This may come in handy for those looking for clarification, and to learn what steps are necessary to register a valid exemption.
Landlords may also be interested to learn of how the enforcement of the framework will be executed, including the issuing of fines and other penalties.
It also discusses how appeals will work, specifically the steps that will have to be taken by a landlord to lodge an appeal.