Return to view all news articles.

Energy Performance Certificates changes – 01 April 2020 - Residential Property

A photo of Matthew Thom
by Matthew Thom 14th January 2020

Many private landlords may not be aware that on the 1stApril 2020 any property which is subject to an existing residential tenancy will need an EPC rating of “E” or above to remain within the law.

This means that if a property has a rating of “F” or “G” then a landlord will be breaking the law if they continue to rent the property without first completing work to increase the rating to an “E” or above or alternately registering the property on the National PRS Exemptions Register.

The exemptions for a residential landlord are limited and include-

  • All available improvements have been made and the property remains substandard;
  • The works required to increase the rating will cost more than £3,500.00 inclusive of VAT.

It is extremely important that Landlords adhere to the new regulations as failure to do so could result in a financial penalty for the Landlord of up to £2,000.00 per Tenancy if the substandard property was let for less than 3 months and up to £4,000.00 per Tenancy if the property was let for in excess of 6 months.

In addition to this the Local Authority may also choose to publish a list of Landlords who have breached the regulations which may have a reputational impact upon landlords.

If you have any questions in relation to these new regulations or you require advice in relation to steps you can take please do not hesitate in contacting Matthew Thom or another of the experienced Team here at Thomas Flavell & Sons who will be happy to assist.