The 1st April 2018 will see any properties rented out in the private rented sector requiring a minimum energy performance rating of E on an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). If you don’t have this rating, you are unlikely to be able to legally rent out your property after this date.
The regulations (known as the MEES Regulations) come into force for new lets and renewals of existing tenancies from 1st April 2018 and for all existing tenancies from 1st April 2020. There are separate regulations effective from 1st April 2016 under which a tenant can apply for consent to carry out energy efficiency improvements in privately rented properties.
It will then be unlawful to rent a property which breaches the requirement for a minimum E rating, unless there is an applicable exemption. A fine of up to £4,000 will be imposed for breaches.
As with most laws, there are several exclusions to this regulation relating to listed buildings, conservation areas and monuments, where an EPC might not be required anyway, but the primary exclusions that might apply to most landlords are;
- Residential buildings which are intended to be used less than 4 months of the year or
- Stand alone buildings with a total usable floor area of less than 50 square meters.
A domestic private rented sector property is considered to be ‘substandard’ if the EPC rating is F or G, unless an exemption applies. The legislation then prohibits a landlord from renting out a ‘substandard property’. Therefore, if there is an EPC in place which shows that the property is an F or G, the property must not be let.
Landlords may apply for an exemption from 1st October 2017, so time is short if you intend to do so. The exemptions register will be essentially a database of exemptions and will be open to public inspection. Failure to register any exemption will render the exemption ineffective, and will amount to non-compliance with the regulations. Exemptions will last for 5 years.
The Enforcement Authority will be entitled to require landlords to furnish them with evidence supporting a claim for an exemption. Landlords will also be in breach of the regulations if they claim an exemption to which they are not properly entitled.
If you are a private Landlord and want to avoid being an April Fool next year - take this legislation seriously and act today.
Download our Free First Time Buyers Guide
Recent posts
Budgeting over the Christmas Period
4 days ago
The most wonderful time of the year can easily turn into the most expensive time of the year. Watching the pennies doesn’t mean that the Christmas festivities have to stop, following a few budgeting tips can mean you still have a special Christmas and don’t go into the new year in debt.
Preparing your home to sell in winter
8 days ago
December is usually a less desirable time to buy as many people don’t want to move over the holidays. However, prospective buyers do start to look at this time. Selling your home in winter may require a bit of extra attention to showcase your property at its best.
We look at why mortgage rates increased following the Bank of England's choice to reduce the bank rate, and should you fix now?
UK 2024 Autumn Budget: Housing
30 Oct 2024
On 30th October 2024 the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves delivered the Autumn budget which we had previously been warned would be “difficult”. Below we have summarised the main housing points.
Talking about money with kids
23 Oct 2024
In an increasingly cashless society, money is an intangible concept for children to grasp. In the days of coins and notes, kids could see money as something physical you require to purchase goods and services.
In order to help teach your children about money, we have listed some tips below;
Labour Autumn Budget Predictions: Housing
18 Oct 2024
The UK’s chancellor, Rachel Reeves will deliver the Labour government’s autumn budget at the end of the month, we take a look at what could be announced in relation to housing.
Recent research from Halifax has revealed the most sought-after locations for first time buyers in Britain.
The data which was taken from the Halifax House Price Index looked at areas outside of London where those looking to purchase their first property were buying. Despite high property prices and increased rates, these first time buyer hotspots have remained popular.
How can I look after my mental health?
7 Oct 2024
Taking care of your mental health means looking after your emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. There are several ways we can practice self-care that will help to improve our physical and mental health. This can help to reduce our risk of illness, manage stress, and boost our energy levels!
More information
Trusted by
