Watts?- The Problem!

From 1 April 2018, it will be a legal requirement for new lettings, leases subject to renewal or lease extensions in the private rented sector to have a minimum Energy Performance Rating (EPC) of E or above. As such, newly let properties or lease renewals and extensions after this date that have an EPC Rating of F of G are subject to a penalty. Penalties may be cumulative. The penalty regime ranges from £5,000 to a maximum of £150,000.

A few property types however, are exempt. These include: standalone buildings with total useful floor area of less than 50m2, buildings used as a place of worship and temporary structures. Properties are also exempt if a relevant suitably qualified expert provides written advice that the measures will reduce a property’s value by 5% or more.

A common misconception with the EPC Regulations is that listed buildings, or buildings within a conservation area, aren’t required to have an EPC, and therefore aren’t affected by the law changes in April 2018. This is however, not the case. Listed Buildings and buildings in a conservation area are required to have a valid EPC and must therefore be up to the required standard from 1 April 2018, unless the landlord can prove the energy performance requirements would unacceptably alter the character or appearance of the building.

If your property falls into the F or G category, don’t panic, contact us at Underwoods. We understand that the rules and exemptions seem difficult to interpret. We are able to give you a professional service in obtaining reliable contractors to undertake works which are most likely to have the greatest impact on improving the EPC rating of your building.

We will ensure the most cost-effective solution is considered, thereby reducing your property ownership costs, and increase your properties appeal to new tenants.

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Watts?- The Problem!

From 1 April 2018, it will be a legal requirement for new lettings, leases subject to renewal or lease extensions in the private rented sector to have a minimum Energy Performance Rating (EPC) of E or above. As such, newly let properties or lease renewals and extensions after this date that have an EPC Rating […]