Loading...
  • Energy Efficiency: is it time to act?

Energy Efficiency: is it time to act?

17 May 2023

Improving the Energy performance of a rented property is beneficial for the tenants and the environment, and at Rent Happily, we have successfully helped our landlords improve their properties at a reasonable cost.

The impact of the coming regulation

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) change has been postponed, and the new legislation hasn't been published yet.

If you want to rent a property in Bristol, the new EPC regulation will apply. However, when confirmed, the upgrade is only expected to take effect in 2028, and by then several factors may play in favour of landlords:

  • Energy prices going down would bring EPC grade up, rather than down as we have seen over last winter.
  • Favourable rental market promoting investment in the sector rather than deterring it.
  • New insulation technology making the transition easier and/or cheaper.
  • The EPC minimum grade is not yet set in stone and may require a minimum D instead of C.
  • Funding is already available to finance the cost of improvements through Green Deal for instance, and more credit lines might be opened.
  • The list of PRS exemptions applicable may vary and allow greater scope for exemptions, including the cost cap for substantial improvements.

Last but not least, improving the MEES of a property rises its value, so it should be seen as an added asset rather than a cost.
All in all, the rules may still change, and the scenario for improvements may adapt, so we recommend taking action slowly.

How to get ready in times

As a letting agency, we have helped many landlords improve the energy efficiency of their property gradually, with little impact on their revenues. Instead of raising the alarm, let's improve what can be improved today, and wait until the need arises to adapt to the changes when and as required.

Boris Drappier

Contact us to discuss your needs




Other News
Quotation Mark Quotation Mark
  • I had been lucky enough to find Rent Happily to let my flat; the quality of the service I received from the very beginning is second to none, understanding and always showing integrity. Due to the professional approach and client care, I feel very glad to have had my property managed by Rent Happily for over four years.  I know my tenants are happy and my property is looked after. Thank you for being such a great team!

    Liz M. Happy Landlord
  • I have only ever had good experiences with Rent Happily. The team are friendly and helpful, they treat us with respect and I've always felt like they value us as tenants. Not something I've come to expect from an estate agent! Thanks for being the kind of estate agent I am happy to write a testimonial for!

    Zoe R. Happy Tenant
  • I have let through Rent Happily for a few years now and can honestly say they are the best letting agency I've used. They are friendly, reasonable and incredibly helpful. I highly recommend them.

    Niamh W. Happy Tenant
  • The team has been great at communicating with me and the tenants, and they have managed things expertly and hassle free. I have had a consistently high level of personalised service throughout what has been absolutely a superb experience.

    Ahmed O. Happy Landlord
  • I have happily rented properties with this company for over five years and have always been extremely happy with their professional work. They have always been there to help with any requirements. Great team to work with!

    Mark A. Happy Tenant
  • The team at Rent Happily is a pleasure to work with, they are easy to get hold of if need be and prompt to resolve problems. Thank you.

    Wayne A. Happy Tenant