'Time is running out' for landlords to improve green performance

Posted: 30 Sep 2011 10:13:55 GMT

The clock is said to be ticking for landlords to bring their properties up to minimum green standards.

Time may be running out for landlords to improve the environmental performance of their property portfolio.

According to the Association of Residential Letting Agents (Arla), more than a third (35 per cent) of such letting professionals are unaware of the energy-efficiency of their houses, with 17 per cent believing their homes and flats fall into the F and G bands of the Energy Performance Certificate - the lowest categories.

Ian Potter, operations manager of Arla, said: "Arla has campaigned for the government to incentivise - through tax relief - the improvement of rental properties. We urge the government to ensure that the Green Deal is an effective solution."

The letting agents body believes with rental demand continuing to rise, the coalition should to more to help landlords meet minimum standards.

This week, private rented sector expert at Letting Focus David Lawrenson said that landlords should take a hands-on approach when it comes to tackling problems with a house - and such professionals should remember they are running a business, so it is their responsibility to resolve any issues.

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