Warning for landlords to check energy efficiency ratings
Minimum energy efficiency standards are set to change next April, and landlords are being told to act now to make sure their properties meet the new regulations.
The minimum energy efficiency standard (MEES) was first introduced in March 2015. Energy ratings fall between bands A to G, with A being the most energy efficient, and G the least energy efficient. After 1st April 2018, properties with an energy rating of less than E cannot legally be let out.
But according to new tenant survey carried out by insurance company AXA, one out of every twenty rental properties still has an energy rating of less than E, meaning those properties would not meet the required standards next year.
Landlords are advised to check energy efficiency ratings, and if their buy-to-let properties do not make the grade, to make changes accordingly.
However, it’s important to note that the regulations introduced next April will only apply to new tenancies or renewal of tenancies, and there are exemptions which landlords should also be aware of.
Unless rental properties meet the new standards next April, they will not be able to be rented out to tenants, and penalties for non-compliance are hefty.
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