People living in rented homes could benefit from lower bills as all properties for let will have to meet tighter energy standards in Wales.

From April 1, all landlords will need an energy rating of E or higher to rent their property.

The Welsh Labour Government is making support available to help raise the standards of homes in the private rented sector.

Landlords who let out a property under a domestic short-hold, regulated or assured short-hold tenancy will need to ensure they have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of E or above. From April 2018, all tenancy agreements which started or renewed after this date were required to meet the new minimum levels immediately.

But from 1 April 2020, the new rules will extend to cover all existing tenancies. This means any domestic rental property that falls foul of the minimum requirements will be deemed unlawful and the landlord may be subject to a fine of up to £5,000.

There are a number of resources available that can help landlords to comply, including schemes that may be able to support with the cost of making energy improvements to your property.

As part of the Welsh Government Warm Homes fund, the NEST scheme offers a range of free, impartial advice and, if you are eligible, a package of free home energy efficiency improvements such as a new boiler, central heating or insulation.

Housing Minister Julie James said:

“We want to all ensure homes in Wales are energy efficient.

 

These new standards will ensure people who rent their homes benefit from warmer homes, which will help reduce energy costs and help protect the environment.”