Let properties must be energy efficient by 2018

Landlords will need to ensure every property they let has a minimum energy performance rating of E by April 2018.

In fact, it will be unlawful to let out properties with EPC ratings of F and G (the two lowest ratings). The Governmentís new ruling is designed to cut carbon monoxide emissions and slash fuel bills for tenants.

Although the radical changes are two years away, landlords may have to act immediately. From April 2016 tenants will have the right to request consent to carry out energy saving measures, with landlords only able to refuse unreasonable requests.

To meet the new rule, advance planning is advised. Landlords without an up-to-date EPC are urged to commission a new survey to find out the energy rating of every property they rent out. It is estimated that 1 in 10 buy-to-let properties will be un-lettable by 2018, mainly those built before 1919. If your buy-to-let is currently rated as D or borderline E, we advise landlords to take action now so they do not slip into an unlawful rating by 2018. There is also speculation that, in the long-term, properties to rent with an EPC rating of C and below will also become illegal to let, so making energy efficient changes now is a wise investment.

To soften any financial blow for landlords facing energy efficient improvements, the Government has introduced the Green Deal ñ a finance loan that covers insulation, draught proofing, double glazing and renewable energy technologies. Full details of the finance packages available and further energy efficient advice for landlords is available from the Energy Saving Advice Line, 0300 123 1234.