28 November 2007
Increasing numbers of people living in rented accommodation are enjoying energy efficiency improvements, the National Landlords' Association (NLA) said yesterday.
The energy upgrades, including boiler replacements and better insulation in lofts from landlords, not only provide an environmental benefit for tenants but can also cut energy bills and improve heating efficiency.
However, the Chairman of the NLA said that the private rented sector has some way to go before across-the-board improvements can be achieved.
David Salusbury added: "An energy efficient property makes good business sense because it will be more appealing to tenants, will command a premium rent and also help save the planet.
"By improving the standard of their properties, landlords are able to improve the quality of life for tenants as well as helping to maintain the fabric of the building and investing in their own futures."
The improvements have been made, in part, due to the government's introduction of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which will become mandatory for rented properties from October 2008.
Lasting 10 years, EPCs provide landlords with an easy-to-follow chart showing their property's energy performance - and suggest ways of improving efficiency.
"With so many legal obligations on the landlord, letting residential property can be a minefield of regulation - and Energy Performance Certificates are yet another consideration," Mr Salusbury said.
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