THE landlords of hundreds of privately rented properties in Liverpool are being warned they could face a visit and fine if they do not improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
Under the new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), landlords letting out a property must ensure that it has a minimum energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of E.
Liverpool is running a campaign funded by the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy through the Midlands Energy Hub to find properties with a rating of F and G, and support landlords to improve their property.
In September, the city council identified 467 privately rented properties with a G rating and issued a letter about the need to comply.
Around 300 properties did not respond initially and subsequently received a reminder letter, which offered access to information and support and possible funding. The owners of more than 100 homes have now been in touch, leaving around 200 outstanding.
Unless they are shown to be exempt, properties may be followed up with an enforcement notice and a possible inspection visit which could result in fines of up to £5,000.
The council recently ran a webinar to raise awareness of the regulations, attended by 55 landlords.
Landlords who were unable to attend are able to watch the session back via a dedicated webpage, along with links to other information.
The powers around MEES will also feature within the revised Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy and be part of regular checks undertaken as part of the new five year Landlord Licensing scheme which will be introduced from April 2022.
Another webinar is planned for 27 January 2022 with a further update on the progress of the project and other useful information for landlords – to register please email mees@liverpool.gov.uk or click here.
Councillor Sarah Doyle, Cabinet member for strategic housing and regeneration, said:
“Too many of our residents live in poor standard accommodation and are paying over the odds for gas and electricity because their homes are so poorly insulated.
“We believe that many landlords are not aware of the new legislation or are choosing to ignore it so we need to take action.
“It could make a big difference to the lives of individuals and families who are facing rising fuel and energy costs.
“There is government funding available to help pay for improvements such as the installation of a new boiler and central heating system or better insulation.
“The landlord will be able to benefit from funding for these vital home improvements but more importantly, the quality of living conditions for tenants will improve.
“Reducing carbon emissions is a priority for the city and every property that is more energy efficient is helping us meet our goal of helping tackle the climate emergency.”