Shropshire Council has written to landlords warning them to bring their properties in line with minimum EPC standards – or face a hefty fine.
It’s been an offence for landlords to grant a new tenancy on a property with an EPC rating below E since April 2020, but some properties still fall below standards.
The council has written to landlords with properties below the standard, while if they fail to make improvements they could be handed a fine of up to £5,000.
The council is enforcing the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) Regulations.
A spokesperson from the council said: “Improving energy efficiency in any property – rented or otherwise – is more important than ever, as we all face higher utility bills.
“Reducing heat loss through better insulation and installing more energy efficient and low carbon heating and lighting will not only help to significantly reduce energy bills, but will also reduce carbon emissions, which is vitally important if we are to mitigate the effects of climate change.
“We know most landlords are responsible and are willing to comply with their obligations to ensure tenants have warm homes that are not cold and damp, which will help to improve their health and wellbeing; but we will not hesitate to take action against those landlords who breach the rules.
“Those in breach of the regulations can face a fine of up to £5,000, and I would encourage landlords to ensure their properties comply under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards legislation to avoid formal action and a potential fine.”
