Summary of our response
We do not agree with the Government's policy proposal to introduce a landlord contribution element where funding is unavailable to ensure that improvements to Band F and G properties can be delivered. The private rented sector has received significantly less support in terms of funding for energy efficiency improvements when compared to the social rented sector. Billions of pounds have been given in grant aid to social landlords whereas private landlords have barely benefited from any funding.
The cost cap for improving sub-standard domestic private rented property should not be set at £2,500. We believe it should be much lower because a high cost cap will just increase the financial burdens on landlords who will then pass the costs onto tenants through higher rents.
The Government should instead be focussing on doing more to support private landlords by reintroducing the Landlord’s Energy Saving Allowance (LESA) and extending it to include anything contained within the Recommendations Report of an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to help landlords with the cost of energy efficiency improvements to their properties
