A council has threatened private rented sector landlords in Brighton by issuing a stern warning that there are currently hundreds of rented homes with lower EPC ratings below the compliancy regulations, and this will not and “cannot continue.”

Last year Brighton’s private rented housing team achieved what it calls “a lot of work” to ensure Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards of PRS homes meet the required ratings and must have an EPC rating of E or higher.

In 2022 the housing team found 740 rented residences in Brighton & Hove area were rated F or G on their EPC.

A statement from the council, says: “This cannot continue. Landlords in the city should be aware that if they fail to make improvements and do not keep their properties up to the required standard, they risk a financial penalty of up to £5,000 per breach, per property. The council will have no hesitation in implementing these penalties should landlords continue to fail to resolve any such issue. In addition to reducing the carbon footprint of privately rented properties, improving energy efficiency also offers tenants cheaper energy bills.”

“Our priority is always the health and safety of residents of Brighton & Hove. Failure to comply will not be tolerated. A low EPC rating often signifies related problems in the property.