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Landlords face "massive fines" over EPCs
2009-01-06
Buy to let mortgage borrowers in Scotland risk substantial fines if they fail to provide prospective tenants with an energy performance certificate (EPC), the National Landlord Association (NLA) has warned.
Landlords could face a fine of £5,000 per property they own if they do not obtain an EPC, which provides would-be tenants with details on energy efficiency and the environmental impact of the accommodation.
EPCs were launched in the UK from October 1st 2008 but became effective in Scotland on from January 4th this year.
Jim Parker, chairman of NLA Scotland, said EPCs will give tenants an insight into the heating costs of the houses and flats they view, before they commit to renting the property.
"Given the current economic problems, it's likely many tenants will start voting with their wallets," Mr Parker said.
Under the government's Landlord's Energy Saving Allowance, buy to let mortgage holders can claim back the cost of specific energy-efficiency improvements, such as draught-proofing and hot water insulation, through their annual tax return.
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