DECC urged to set energy efficiency standard for private landlords

More than 30 organisations are calling on the Government to set a minimum energy efficiency standard for private rented homes across the UK. They suggest regulations must be introduced “without […]

More than 30 organisations are calling on the Government to set a minimum energy efficiency standard for private rented homes across the UK.

They suggest regulations must be introduced “without delay” to give certainty to landlords and tenants in an effort to slash energy bills and cut carbon emissions.

The Government had been expected to bring in new regulations by early 2014 at the latest however a consultation on the plans has yet to be published.

Around four million of the 22.8 million homes in England were privately rented in 2011 – the highest since the early 1990s, according to the UK Green Building Council (GBC). It claims the private rented sector has the highest proportion (11%) of the most energy inefficient homes – with the lowest energy performance bands of F and G.

In a joint letter to the Government, the organisations – including UK-GBC, Energy Saving Trust and National Energy Action – are calling on DECC to ensure all privately rented properties meet band E at the least.

John Alker, Director of Policy and Communications at UK-GBC said: “A minimum energy efficiency standard is not only crucial for upgrading the UK’s poorly performing privately rented homes but would also give a much needed boost to the flagging Green Deal. Government is long overdue in setting out this standard, creating uncertainty for both landlords and tenants.”

A spokesperson from DECC said the Energy Act requires the Government to set minimum efficiency standards for private rented homes by 2018 and that it is planning to hold a consultation this spring.

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