In our previous post we advised readers about the Government’s proposal to introduce a minimum energy performance rating of E within the private rental sector. We now have confirmation from the RLA that the proposed changes will be implemented in April 2018.
In April 2018, private rental properties will need to have a minimum EPC rating of E or it will be illegal to rent them to tenants. In April, next year this change will only apply to new tenancies and renewals. In April 2020, the rule will be extended to incorporate all private rentals.
Properties with a EPC rating of F or G will either need to be taken off the market after this date or improvements implemented. Readers are reminded that this date is only some 8 months away and in order to ensure compliance improvement works should be considered sooner rather than later.
The Government is expected to publish specific guidance for landlords in October this year to clarify the changes. The clarification will hopefully include details on any cost capping on the improvement works landlords are expected to carry out and will also confirm that some, if not all, listed buildings are exempt from the change.
On the publication of the Government’s EPC guidance in October we will update this post as soon as possible.
