There have been a number of changes affecting Landlords in recent years, from the changes to Section 21 Notices and the introduction of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, through to tax changes and a proposed Ombudsman Service.

However, the most recent changes to come into force are the changes to the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rules, which have effect from 1st April 2018 onwards.

Landlords of domestic residential premises, as well as non-domestic or commercial properties, now have to ensure the properties meet minimum energy performance standards. Landlords will have to get a new EPC every 10 years, which grades the property from A to F in terms of energy efficiency. From 1st April 2018 onwards, it is unlawful to rent out a property which does not have an EPC rating of ‘E’ or better.

This change applies to all new tenancies granted after 1st April 2018. Existing tenancies will only fall to be considered under these rules when the Tenancy Agreement is renewed. By 2020 it is expected that this rule will apply to all properties, whether new or existing lets.

The penalties for none compliance are significant. Any landlord who enters into a new tenancy (or renews an existing tenancy) where there is not an ‘E’ rating EPC or better, is at risk of prosecution in the civil and criminal courts and financial penalties of up to £5,000 can be applied.

Iain Blundell, Solicitor leading our Landlord and Tenant department, comments “It is crucial that Landlords ensure that they are compliant with these rules. The Government agenda at present seems very much anti-Landlord, with lots of extra regulatory burdens being placed on Landlords. From a tenant’s point of view, the changes should help to reduce energy bills as homes become more energy efficient, but coming at a time when Landlords’ groups are already feeling the bite of other changes, it is another burden to face.”

Here at Curtis Law Solicitors we have expertise in advising Landlords across Lancashire and Greater Manchester, and our expert team are on hand to assist whatever changes the Government throws at you.

Are you a landlord? Or Letting Agent? Do you need advice about how to deal with the deluge of recent changes? Need advice on problem tenants, tenancy agreements, or property matters? Please contact Iain Blundell, or our expert team at Curtis Law.

We can assist with a wide range of Landlord and Tenant enquiries – please contact us direct on 01254 297130.