Energy efficiency regulations loom for private landlords

Private landlords across Wyre Forest must make sure all properties meet new energy efficiency standards by next spring.

Wyre Forest District Council is launching a new campaign to make landlords aware of the new national regulations which come into force on 1 April 2020.

By 1 April 2020 all private rented properties not registered with an exemption must achieve a minimum Energy Performance rating of E or above. If a landlord fails to comply with the regulations they may be fined up to £5,000 by the council.

The council is currently reviewing the national Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) register to establish which properties fail to meet the requirements. Over the coming months the council will be contacting individual landlords to discuss what works are needed to improve the energy efficiency of their property. This will give landlords the opportunity to complete any work necessary before the April 2020 deadline.

If you believe your property needs energy efficiency improvements you can contact Act on Energy on 0800 988 2881 for advice on grant schemes and recommended works in the first instance to see what national grants are available to help improve the energy efficiency rating of your property. Act on Energy is partly funded by the council to provide energy efficiency information.

Councillor Nicky Martin, Cabinet Member for Housing, Health, Well-being and Democratic Services has said “I would encourage any landlord to make sure their properties meet the required energy efficiency standards. Properties with a better EPC rating are warmer, healthier and more affordable for tenants as well as reducing the environmental impact.”

For more detailed information surrounding EPC requirements please see the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 alternatively by visiting; https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-private-rented-property-minimum-standard-landlord-guidance-documents.

If you have any queries or require any further information or clarification please do call the Private Sector Housing team on 01562 732190.