Coming into force on May 4th is the new Government scheme, Debt Respite, or ‘Breathing Space’. Administered by the Insolvency Service, it has been created to offer legal protection to those with the common issue of problem debt, which has become increasingly prevalent during the pandemic and economic uncertainty across the country.
We like to keep an eye on the market for our landlords for any potential buy to let investments we believe to be worth considering. This month we have found three! These properties are not on the market with us however if you would like to discuss them and the rental potential then please feel free to contact me.
Green Homes Grants: Government extends scheme by a year
The Green Homes Grant scheme, under which landlords can apply for a grant of up to £5000 to improve the energy efficiency of their properties, has been extended.
Launched in September, the scheme was due to end on 31st March 2021. As part of a new ten - point - plan for a green industrial revolution unveiled by the Government this week, the scheme will now be extended until March 2022.
What the extension means in practice
The NRLA has long campaigned for further funding to be made available to help landlords to go above and beyond the legal minimum of energy efficiency measures set out by the Government for the PRS.
As part of the Green Homes Grants scheme, landlords can apply for grants which are issued as vouchers, and cover up to two-thirds of costs, available for specific measures.
The extension means the vouchers will be valid for three months from the date they are issued or until 31 March 2022 (whichever is earlier). Vouchers must be redeemed before the validity period ends. An extension of the voucher can be requested at any time before your voucher has expired, unless the scheme has been closed.
Higher energy efficiency targets for landlords
As of this year all rental properties (other than those with valid exemptions) must have an EPC rating of E or higher to be legally rented out.
Coinciding with the launch of the Green Homes Grant scheme in the summer, the Government also announced plans to raise the minimum energy efficiency standards for rental homes to C grade or higher from April 2025 for new tenancies, (unless they have a valid exemption).
The Government is currently consulting on the proposals, with the cost cap proposed for landlords £10,000 – much higher than the current £3,500 level. Under the proposals all landlords will need to hit the targets by 2028 (unless they have a valid exemption).
To help members navigate the application process for the Green Homes Grant Scheme, members can read a step-by-step guide to accessing the grants on the NRLA website. The guide includes more information about eligibility for the scheme, the differences between primary and secondary measures and how to find a trader.
The government has unveiled the public health regulations which will underpin the second national lockdown in England - and the exemptions which apply to estate agency.
Subject to approval by a vote in Parliament this evening, the regulations specifically state that activities relating to the sector are allowed to continue under ‘Exceptions To Leaving Home’.
