On the odd occasion I encounter a rental property with no central heating where the heating in the property is dependent on convector heaters. Invariably the topic of the heating system comes up in conversation with questions like Should I install central heating? What level of rent could I expect if I installed central heating? What would the payback period be? I can never be precise in answering these difficult questions but we may be getting closer to a time that landlords will need to consider installing central heating.
The Energy Bill has just had it’s 2nd reading in the House of Commons. As the bill progresses towards Royal Assent it may be useful for landlords to be mindful of what impact this may have on them. Under the proposed bill we are likely to see regulations that allow tenants to make requests to improve the energy efficiency of a rented property. What if they were to request a more efficient heating system?
In a recent case of Bristol City Council v Aldfrod Two LLP [2011] UKUT 130 (LC) it is clear most EHOs have a strong dislike of convector heating systems and a powerful preference for gas central heating which they see as more energy efficient, environmentally friendly, effective and controllable. This is particularly relevant where the tenant is a benefit claimant with visits from Housing Officers now commonplace and therefore the issue of inefficient heating systems is more likely to come to light.
Whilst none of this is law and we are unlikely to see a ‘central heating law’ The days of leaving your tenants to gather around a candle for warmth may be numbered.