Case Study: Turning an unlettable property into a compliant home

In today's competitive rental market, ensuring properties are not only compliant with regulations but also attractive to tenants is crucial. This case study explores how our approach and collaboration with a landlord transformed an unlettable property into a compliant and energy-efficient home.

By focusing on cost-effective solutions and addressing challenges head-on, we not only helped the landlord avoid potential losses but also created a win-win situation for the landlord and future tenants. Let's delve into the details and see how this approach can benefit all stakeholders in the property market.

The situation:

A property on Westbourne Avenue had long-standing tenants, and its Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) had expired during their tenancy. Not an issue while they still occupied the property, however, when they gave their notice to leave the landlord needed to renew it before the property could be let to any new tenants.

Upon renewing the EPC, the property received an F rating, indicating poor energy efficiency and non-compliance with current regulations. This meant the property could not be legally rented out, failing to meet the minimum E rating that is required of all rental properties.

The challenge:

The F rating presented a challenge for both the landlord and ourselves. The property could not be rented out, causing potential income loss for the landlord facing a void period without a definite end in sight. Additionally, we were tasked with finding a solution that was both cost-effective and compliant with regulations.

The solution:

We used the tools at our disposal to investigate ways to improve the property's energy efficiency and achieve an EPC rating of E or above, making it compliant for rental. We found that installing a loft hatch in the bedroom and adding at least 200mm of loft insulation would be the most cost-effective solution to achieve the desired outcome.

The timeline:

• The EPC was carried out, resulting in an F rating, deeming the property unlettable to any future tenants until it reached an E rating or above

• Our team used the results of the EPC to find the most cost-effective solution to bring the rating up to a compliant level

• A detailed quote for the necessary improvements was sent to the landlord for approval that same day

• The landlord accepted the quote, approving the works to go ahead for our recommended improvements

• The works were swiftly completed, with the loft hatch installed and the loft insulation added (we went beyond the suggested 200mm and opted to install 300mm to further increase the efficiency rating)

• A new EPC assessment was conducted, and the property successfully achieved an E rating, making it compliant with regulations and ready for rental.

The results:

• Our proactive approach saved the landlord from potential financial losses due to an unlettable property

• The cost-effective solution identified by our agents helped the landlord avoid extensive and costly upgrades

• The new rating signifies a more energy-efficient property which translates to potential savings on energy bills for future tenants

• Additionally, the property is now compliant with regulations, allowing it to be legally rented out, and increasing its marketability.

By working closely with the landlord, and building trust and confidence, we were able to successfully transform a non-compliant property into a legally lettable and more energy-efficient home. A fantastic result for all!

Do you have concerns about one of your properties? Worried it might not meet the minimum requirements? Talk to our Works Manager and DEA, Jack Shelley, call us on 01482 235 034 📞