3rd March 2018
Last week, we covered the new rules regarding EPCs, which are coming into effect on the 1st of April 2018. Remember, from April if your property is rating F or G you will have to make improvements to your property or you will not be able to rent it out without a fine.
Tips on improving your EPC rating
There are things you can do to improve your rating, for example:
- take a look at your windows – poorly installed windows can lose your home 10% in heat
- install loft insulation
- add thermostats
- draught-proofing
- replace any halogen, or non-low energy lighting, with LEDs, or compact fluorescent lights
- check your walls for cavities
- replace old inefficient boilers
- insulation for hot water cylinders
- consider replacing your appliances with higher energy ratings
As mentioned in last week’s article, some or all buildings may have to reach a rating of A at some point (however, I might be wrong, but I think realistically we would be looking at a C), so it’s better to do as much as you can now.
There are some circumstances in which you can apply for an exemption. One, for example, is where the occupying tenant withholds consent. It should be noted that you need to check the tenancy agreement. A tenant’s consent may not be required where the tenancy agreement allows you to enter to carry out improvements (as opposed to just repairs). There are temporary exemptions that can apply too, in some cases.
You will not need to get a new EPC if you already have a valid EPC, however, of course you will need to renew it once its 10 year life span is up. Although, some landlords might choose to get an EPC redone, as a higher rating can be a selling point.
Act quickly
It is important that you are ready by 1st April 2018, as you don’t want to find yourself in a position where you are unable to rent your property out, leaving you with an empty property not even covering your mortgage let alone earning any money.
Don’t panic, help is at hand. If you are still stuck as to what to do to ensure you are ready in time, get in touch and I’ll share some more free tips on this.
Richard Bond
Lettings Manager
