Since 1 October 2008 all properties rented out have had to have an energy performance certificate by law.
The energy ratings ranged from A to G (A = best). They have a ten year lifespan and up until this April there was no passing or failing, the better the grade the more energy efficient the property.
From this month a tenant can request that improvements are carried out for properties that fall into the bottom two ratings F or G. Landlords are not able to unreasonably refuse consent.
By 1 April 2018 the minimum allowable rating of E will be required on all available properties advertised to let, and by 1 April 2020 all existing properties let will have to be band E or better. It is estimated that 10% of the nation’s rental housing stock falls in the bottom two categories; if landlords are not in a position to fund improvements it will not help the amount of available stock in the future. I am led to believe that it doesn’t matter who is in government by 2020, this is on the statute book and will go through.
Deals are currently available under The Green Deal (Qualifying Energy Improvements) Order 2012 – for more information on this, give me a call.
In our experience, properties with low energy bills are a powerful attraction for longer term tenants – higher bills and poor energy efficiency will push tenants out.
We continue to be busy in Newport with tenant enquiries, the first quarter of 2016 has seen us let many more houses in the area compared to the same period over previous years! With new builds proving popular, so far this year the average rent on three bedroom properties has risen to £720 per property with two beds now up to £600 on average. We have just let a new three bedroom off Wellington Road for £825 pcm, a three bedroom semi-detached house on Palisade Close off Stafford Road for £750 pcm and a two bedroom house on Farmers Gate at £595 pcm. As I have said here before, we urgently need more stock to replace the properties we have just let and to meet the ever growing demand from decent, prospective tenants.
Please contact me to discuss any letting related matter on 01952 820239 or r.heath@barbers-online.co.uk.
Richard Heath
FARLA, FNAEA, CRLM
In-house conveyancing with Barbers
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