Is your home up to standard?

New energy performance (EPC) regulations set improved standards for rental properties. After 1 April 2016, tenants living in F and G rated homes will be able to request improvements, such as more insulation. The landlord will then be legally bound to bring the property up to an E rating.

After 1 April 2018, landlords with properties rated F and G will be unable to let them out to new tenants.

Almost 10% of England and Wales’ 4.2m privately rented homes currently fall below the E rating. (Source: Government statistics, February 2015).

Under the new legislation, if a tenant requests a more efficient home and the landlord fails to comply, the landlord could ultimately be forced to pay a penalty notice. Landlords will be able to let out F and G rated properties beyond 1 April 2018 for the remainder of existing rental contracts, but will not be able to renew a contract, or let the property to someone else until it is brought up to an E rating.