Working to ensure minimum energy efficiency standards in private rented homes 

We’ve been awarded £70,765 from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to increase enforcement work to ensure private rented homes meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards.  

Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards Regulations (MEES) any landlord who rents out a property must supply the tenant with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a rating of at least an E, unless they have registered a valid exemption to the minimum energy regulations.  

We’ve been writing to landlords who, according to our available data, have properties that fall short of the standards to give them advice on improving the energy efficiency of their properties.  

This has already led to many landlords engaging with us on getting their properties up to standard. For those who don’t engage, we can take enforcement action, which can lead to a fine of up to £5000. 

We have so far contacted landlords of 488 homes with the lowest energy performance ratings of F and G.  

With the new funding we are now following up these letters to make sure landlords are carrying out the necessary improvements and will take further action if needed.  

If you are a tenant and you have not been supplied with a valid EPC, you can email the council at PSH@brighton-hove.gov.uk

Improving energy efficiency in housing

Councillor Siriol Hugh-Jones, Co-chair of the Housing Committee, said: “Improving energy efficiency in housing in the city is a priority for us, as part of our commitment to become at carbon neutral city by 2030.  

“This funding is a significant boost. It is enabling us to step up our work to raise energy efficiency standards in privately rented homes, which will help tenants manage their energy bills, as well as helping to cut carbon emissions.”  

Action to ensure private rented homes meet minimum energy efficiency standards is part of a package measures by the council across private sector and council housing in the city.