Private Domestic Renters Rights to a Warm Home

Citizens Advice South Hams reminds landlords of domestic rental property, of the fast approaching deadline to make sure they meet requirements for minimum energy efficiency standards. The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) legislation was introduced in 2015 and it governs efficiency in buildings with tenancies. From 2018 landlords were prohibited from granting new tenancies for properties with an EPC rating below E. From 1st April 2020, all existing tenancies which require an EPC will need to have a minimum E rating
Local authorities will enforce compliance and non-compliant landlords could face a financial penalty of up to £4,000.

Nick White of the local charity Citizens Advice South Hams says, “The law is changing soon and, if they haven’t already, landlords of private domestic properties must take steps to make sure that homes they rent are energy efficient. By April 2020 any landlord who owns a property with an EPC rating of F or below will no longer be able rent it out to a new tenant or renew an existing contract. Energy inefficient domestic properties, will no longer be able to be lawfully rented. The rentability of their property will be severely affected and if they receive a penalty for noncompliance the rateable value of their property could be increased.

Citizens Advice South Hams can also provide help and support to anyone struggling with heating costs or keeping their home warm, comfortable and healthy. We can advise anyone who suspects their home isn’t compliant with the new Energy Performance Ratings (EPC). And we have a home visiting service to help residents tackle situations such as draught or damp and mould, bills being too high for no apparent reason and heating systems that don’t work or are broken. In some cases residents may be eligible for funding of up to 100% towards energy efficiency improvements such as insulation, upgrading electric storage radiators and new boilers.”
To contact Citizens Advice South Hams Energy Team call 01803 659733 and leave a message, an adviser will ring you back or email  energy.advice@southhamscab.org.uk