MPs probe rental sector energy efficiency - and want industry views

The All Party Parliamentary Group for the Private Rented Sector has launched an inquiry into the energy efficiency of private rented housing.

From April 1 2018 all privately rented properties will be required to have a minimum energy performance rating of E on an Energy Performance Certificate - a challenging demand for the many privately rented homes which are relatively old or not in prime condition. 

The APPG’s probe follows the government’s decision not to renew the Landlord Energy Savings Allowance, which had originally been introduced to encourage landlords to improve the energy efficiency of the properties they let but was dropped because of low take up.

The government has also ended funding for the Green Deal and a decision by the European Court of Justice earlier this year ruled that the reduced five per cent rate of VAT paid on energy efficiency products can no longer be applied, apart from when used for social rented housing.

The APPG says it will consider “the impact of recent policy developments on energy efficiency improvements in the private rented sector and make recommendations about what new policies could be developed to support the sector within the government’s overall ambitions for household energy efficiency and given its efforts to ensure value for taxpayers’ money.”

Group chairman Oliver Colville, a Tory MP, says:  “The inquiry will look to develop new ideas that will support landlords to meet their new target; save tenants money on their Bills and help improve standards. I would encourage all those with an interest to submit their suggestions.”

Those with an interest in these subjects are invited to provide written submissions of no more than 1,500 words to Ed Jacobs on admin@prs-group.org.uk by October 23.