Landlords 'must consider energy efficiency' - buy to let mortgages

06 January 2009

Those with buy to let mortgages have been encouraged to consider the energy efficiency of their properties.

The National Landlords Association has highlighted the benefits of maintaining an efficient home, stating that it can make it more attractive to prospective tenants.

Improving a house or flat can also add value to the property, as well as lowering the risk of damp or mould setting in, the body noted.

And it claimed that tenants who receive lower fuel bills are more likely to stay in a property for longer, reducing the amount of void periods that landlords experience.

"In winter a property which feels warm, insulated and comfortable with a modern boiler and no signs of damp should be particularly appealing to tenants," stated NLA senior policy officer Elizabeth Brogan.

Under law, UK landlords are required to provide energy performance certificates to potential tenants.

The legislation has just been introduced into Scotland.