Energy efficiency for let properties

The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 establish a minimum level of energy efficiency for privately rented property in England and Wales.

Subject to some prescribed exemptions Part 3 of the Principal 2015 Regulations states that a landlord must not grant a new tenancy (including a renewal tenancy) of a property after 1 April 2018 or continue to let any property after 1 April 2023 where the property has an EPC Rating of F or G.

Important note

These regulations only effects properties which are privately rented.

Performance ratings

There is a requirement for any properties rented out in the private rented sector to have a minimum energy performance rating of E on an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

The regulations came into force for new lets and renewals of tenancies on 1 April 2018 and for all existing tenancies on 1 April 2020.

It will be unlawful to rent a property which breaches the requirement for a minimum E rating, unless there is an applicable exemption. A civil penalty of up to £4,000 will be imposed for breaches.

For most landlords this will mean that they will no longer be able to rent out a property with a rating of F or G. For more information visit gov.uk landlord guidance documents.