Within a few years, landlords may need to ensure their properties are more energy efficient. Here’s what you need to know.
At present, MEES Regulations only permit properties to be rented with an EPC rating of E or higher, at least without a valid exemption. Under proposed changes to improve the efficiency of UK housing stock, the minimum rating could be raised to C within a few years. Under the proposals, this will apply to new tenancies by 2028 and all tenancies by 2030.
Over half of the roughly five million properties being privately rented could be affected. Some help is at hand, however, because energy-saving materials are currently zero-rated for VAT. In addition to insulation and solar panels, this includes devices like thermostatic radiator valves.
In an interview with UK Property News, eco-Landlord’s CEO and founder, Angus Stewart, suggested keeping the receipts for any relevant improvement work, as well as statements from the tradespeople that did the work. He added:
“This way, when the assessor comes along, you can prove what you’ve done. It’s also a good idea to take ‘before and after’ photos of the work. This visual evidence will help you demonstrate the measures you’ve taken to improve the property, ultimately helping you get the right certification you need.”
Old boilers can also be highly inefficient compared to modern condensing boilers. Xgas can provide a boiler installation in Wrexham and nearby locations like Oswestry and Chester, as well as suggest other efficiency improvements for the heating system. Get in touch to learn more.