South West property consultants Vickery Holman are keen to raise awareness of the implications of the Energy Act 2011 on landlords and tenants.
From April 2018, the legislation will make it illegal to let a property with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of F or G.
Although it will be possible to obtain exemption from the act, this will incur costs and will only remain in place for a period of five years.
Although the details are not clear, a phased introduction is the most likely outcome, applying the legislation to all existing and new lets from 2023.
However, Vickery Holman warns that landlords and tenants should begin thinking about the issue now, rather than waiting until March 2018.
The questions landlords should be asking are;
Tenants should be asking what the cost of relocation might be if they are forced to leave a non-compliant property and whether they will be asked to contribute to improvements carried out by the landlord.
Vickery Holman can provide professional advice about the best course of action to take to avoid the costs and inconvenience of landlords or tenants finding themselves in these positions.
They will help to obtain an EPC and undertake a review of measures required to improve the rating where necessary. They can also provide advice about rectifying any problems, in accordance with the regulations, and urge landlords and tenants to contact them at an early stage.
Story: Neil Bird
Photo: Neil Bird
Previous Post
This Week’s Property Industry Appointments
