Financial assistance for energy efficiency improvements (original) (raw)

Energy Efficiency requirements in Wales

Since April 1st 2020, most rental properties in Wales should have an Energy Performance Certificate displaying a rating of E or above. If this is not the case, the property is likely failing to meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard requirements set by the UK Government.

Landlords who continue to let out rental properties below an E are risking operating illegally and should consider how to secure energy efficiency improvements without delay.

Whilst there is a legal basis for improving low performing homes, you and the tenant will also experience multiple benefits by doing so. They include:

✔ Cheaper energy bills and added comfort for your tenants
✔ Potential increase in the value of your rental property
✔ Reduced impact on our environment
✔ Less damp and condensation
✔ Better health for the tenant

Domestic private rented property: minimum energy efficiency standard - landlord guidance

This guidance for landlords provides information on the main aspects of the 2018 ‘Minimum Level of Energy Efficiency’ standard (EPC band E). Content includes:

• Find out if your property is covered by the Regulations
• When you need to take action to improve your property to EPC E
• Funding improvements to your property
• Selecting energy efficiency measures
• Registering an exemption
• Enforcement and penalties
• More detail and examples
• Setting long-term energy performance standards

View further information here: Domestic private rented property: minimum energy efficiency standard - landlord guidance - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Simple Energy Advice

Impartial and Independent Advice is available to help you

• Reduce your energy bills
• Make your home warmer
• Plan home improvements
• Make your home greener

For more information head over to their website here: www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk

Funding available for private sector landlords in Wales

If your tenant receives specified mean-tested benefits or has a health condition resulting in them being at risk of avoidable ill health because they live in a cold home they may be eligible for home improvements at no cost to themselves or the landlord through the Welsh Government Nest scheme

Can your property be connected to gas?

View the Wales and West Utilities ‘Get Connected’ search to check whether your property is eligible

https://www.wwutilities.co.uk/services/gas-connections/

A free connection is available in some circumstances. Further details available here: https://www.warmwest.org.uk/gas-connection-grants/gas-application-form/

Changes ahead

The UK government has committed to upgrade as many private rented sector homes as possible and intended to do this by requiring Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) grade C or above for all rented property by 2030.

A statement issued by the Prime Minister on 21/09/23 stated that landlords will now not be required to upgrade the energy efficiency of their properties, but instead the Government will continue to encourage households to do so where they can.

A consultation was released in 2020 which set out a suite of policy proposals to achieve this. These proposals have now been withdrawn.

To learn more about your responsibilities, watch our video: