The spotlight turned on Energy performance this week!

We all do what we can to ensure that our properties are as efficient as they can be, however a well-performing property is now no longer a nice to have – come 2018 making sure your property is climbing up the EPC ranking is a legal requirement.

In just two years’ time – April 2018 – it will be illegal to rent out a property with an F or G Energy Performance Certificate rating under a new tenancy agreement.

By April 2020, the minimum requirement of an E or above rated property will apply to both new and existing lets, and by 2025 all rental properties will have to have a rating of D or above. By 2030, the government have set the target that all rental properties have to be at least a C energy efficiency rating.

It may seem that this two year warning will give landlords a bit of breathing space, but making sure your property is as efficient as possible should still be a matter of urgency.

So, what can you (or your tenants) do to help your property fit the bill and improve your EPC rating?

• Fit seals to external doors to help keep the chill out
• Fill gaps in floorboards and skirting with beading or sealant
• Fit a jacket around your hot water tank
• Ensure that lofts and wall cavities are insulated
• If replacing your boiler, switch to a high efficient, condensing boiler.
• Replace appliances with those that carry the Energy Saving Recommended logo.
• Fit double glazing whenever possible
• Use energy saving light bulbs