Local councils crack down on EPCs

Landlords in the East Riding and Hull City Council areas are facing increased scrutiny regarding Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). The councils are actively pursuing landlords whose rental properties don't have an active EPC, or are failing to meet minimum EPC ratings, with significant penalties for non-compliance.

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate is a document that provides an energy rating for a property, indicating its energy efficiency. A higher rating means the property is more energy-efficient and cheaper to run. The ratings run from A-G, with E being the current lowest legal rating for rental properties.

Since 2018, when the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) rules were introduced, the minimum EPC rating for a rental home has been set at E.

Why are councils cracking down?

Improving energy efficiency: The primary goal is to improve the energy efficiency of the housing stock and reduce carbon emissions.
Protecting tenants: Ensuring decent living standards for tenants by providing them with warm and energy-efficient homes.
Meeting Government targets: Local authorities are under pressure to meet government targets for improving energy efficiency in the private rented sector.

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

Landlords who fail to meet the minimum EPC requirements may face:

Financial penalties: Substantial fines can be imposed, with the amount varying depending on the severity of the breach.
Prohibition orders: In some cases, councils can issue prohibition orders, preventing landlords from renting out the property until the EPC requirements are met.
Civil penalties: Landlords may also be liable for civil penalties, which can be significant.

What are the minimum EPC requirements?

In 2018, MEES made it illegal for private landlords to rent out properties with an EPC rating below an E. This means homes rated F or G can't be rented until their rating is improved.

There may be some limited exemptions in specific circumstances, but these are generally rare.

What should landlords do?

Consider appointing an agent: As your managing agent, we remove the administrative burden from you when it comes to keeping track of your compliance and certificates. It's especially critical when a current tenancy ends to be on the ball. If your property was compliant when you first let it out, it doesn't necessarily mean that it is now.
Upgrade properties: If your properties do not meet the minimum EPC rating, investigate and implement energy-saving measures such as insulation, double glazing, and more efficient heating systems such as newer boilers or air-source heat pumps.
Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest regulations and guidance from your local council, as well as Government legislation. This is yet another element that an appointed agent will take the lead on, becoming your eyes and ears on the ground.

If you have any questions or concerns about the status of your compliance, you can speak to our Compliance Manager, Hannah, to find out how Ultralets may be able to help you. You can email her or give us a call.

Posted By

Jack Shelley