Being a landlord isn’t an easy task, and it’s important to keep up to date with changes and regulations to keep yourself compliant. However, one change that many landlords aren’t aware of is the changes to minimum energy efficiency standards, also known as MEES. With as many as one in four landlords not even knowing their property’s energy rating, and ignoring rules such as the need for an EPC certificate, this could cause issues for many landlords in Newark and Nottingham, whether they’re letting student properties, flats, or large homes. Here’s some information about the changes, and how you can ensure your homes are fit to let before the April 2018 changes.
EPC
When a property is put on the rental market, it’s a legal requirement that it have an EPC rating, which shows how energy efficient the property is. Changes in rental law mean that as of April 2018, all properties will need to have a rating of E or above. All properties have a rating of A, the highest, to G, the lowest. That means that a well-maintained property with good insulation and double glazing should achieve the minimum standards.
Penalties
Failing to have an EPC can result in a £200 fine, and if you let a property under an E rating, as of April 2018, you could face a fine of up to £4,000. However, it’s likely to be the void periods that’ll worry most landlords. A property under an E rating is unlettable, and so that’s a loss of income. By comparison, installing SuperFOIL insulation is a cheaper option, as it helps get your property up to standard, and is designed to last for decades.
Raising your EPC rating
If your current EPC rating is an F or G, then the good news is that it’s easy to bring properties up to standard. Your priority should be ensuring you have decent insulation, as this will keep the heat inside, so less energy is needed to heat the home. Other measures you could take include:
- Draught-proofing your home
- Check seals on doors and windows
- Install LED lighting
- Add a smart meter so you can see how energy is being used, and make changes accordingly
Look at any vulnerable areas of your property, whether it’s wooden flooring or an old loft, and think about how you can keep out draughts. Adding roof insulation is usually the easiest way to raise your EPC, and if a property is vacant for a stretch of time, then you might want to consider doing the floors and walls too.
If you’re looking for Newark properties with a view to letting them out, then check the EPC. Some properties may be cheaper because of a poor EPC rating, but could be improved with proper insulation. Get a survey or expert advice before you make any decisions.
SuperFOIL Insulation offers insulation products that help your properties become more energy efficient. From our base in Black Horse Farm, Main Street, Norwell, Newark, NG23 6JN, we provide products across the UK. Simply call 01636 639900 to find out more.
