Changes Announced to Minimum Energy Standards for Privately Rented Homes.
Private Rented Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards.
Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has announced this week that the plan to change the regulations pushing private sector landlords to install energy efficiency measures.
Since earlier this year landlords who own some of the coldest homes, i.e. those with an F or G EPC rating have been required to improve these homes but only where there was no cost to them. Following consultation landlords could be required to pay up to £3500 to improve these homes.
When the amendment was announced Energy and Clean Growth Minister Claire Perry said:
"While the vast majority of landlords take great pride in the properties they own, a minority still rent out housing that is difficult to keep warm. Upgrading these homes so they are more energy efficient is one of the most effective ways to tackle fuel poverty and help bring down bills for their tenants, saving them £180 a year.
Everyone should be protected against the cold in their own home and today's announcement will bring this reality closer."
Key Points
- A landlord financial contribution amendment with the contribution now capped at £3,500 rather than zero cost to the landlord.
- Where landlords look to seek exemption because the cost of works is too high they will now need to submit 3 quotes alongside their application for exemption.
- Existing ‘no cost’ exemptions will expire on a planned date of April 2020.
- Removing the consent exemption currently available under Regulation 31(1)(a)(ii) where a tenant has withheld consent to a Green Deal finance plan.
Date : 12-11-2018
