Welcome news for tenants and industry today following the announcement of government plans to improve energy efficiency on buildings for the private rented sector.

From April 2018, landlords will be required by law to get their properties to an energy efficiency rating of at least Band “E”.

From April 2016 tenants will also have the right to request consent for improvements to make their homes warmer and more energy efficient. The measures will have to be paid by the tenant with a possibility of using the following sources: (i) Green Deal Finance Plan; (ii) the Energy Company Obligation or similar future scheme, as provided for by the Energy Act 2011;

For further details see DECC’s Government response to 22 July 2014 Consultation on the domestic regulations (England and Wales)

Dave Sowden, Chief Executive said

“With British properties amongst the leakiest in Europe, we need to have more stable regulations not only for the benefit of 1 million tenants but a long-term strategy for Energy in Buildings which will end fuel poverty and provide a secure, clean and affordable energy future for all buildings in Britain. This key piece of legislation is a much-needed step in the right direction but we look to the next Government to go much further. More can be done to bring a positive effect to the uncertainty faced by industry.”