Energy Performance Certificates - what's changed?

Do you know your properties energy efficiency rating? Chances are, the report was carried out prior to you buying the property. Up until now, the only legal requirement in regards to EPC’s was that you had to have one to sell or let your property; however new legislation has changed that and will affect Landlords in quite a dramatic way.

To be able to let your property (whether privately or through an agent) you must ensure the energy efficiency rating is at an ‘E’ or above. The regulations will come into force for new lets and renewals of tenancies with effect from 1st April 2018 and for all existing tenancies on 1st April 2020. It will be unlawful to rent a property which breaches the requirement for a minimum ‘E’ rating, unless there is an applicable exemption.

This is known as the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) and it applies to both residential and commercial properties.

If you discover your property has a rating below the MEES, I would recommend speaking to an energy assessor about what you can do to increase it, however here are a few ideas that may help:

·         Ensure your roof insulation is the correct depth

·         Replace any non-energy efficient bulbs/light fittings in the property

·         Install central heating if it does not have it already

·         Filling in cavity wall

·         Replace an old boiler with a new, more energy efficient one

·         Replace windows and doors/consider double glazing

Non-compliancy of the new legislation can result in financial penalties, your agent should have informed you about this already however if not, it is definitely worth asking them.