Repairs and maintenance work is all part of property ownership, and if you are a landlord like me, keeping on top of such things at your properties is something else to add on to your list of “things to do”. However, whilst most of us are more than happy to pay for essential repairs, we might not necessarily choose the “green” option and we are unlikely to feel terribly happy at the thought of being told to replace loft insulation and install double glazing at the same time!
Like most responsible people, I recognise the sense in energy saving measures and so-called green initiatives, but I believe that they should be voluntary rather than compulsory. Unfortunately for home owners and landlords, the government is considering a new scheme whereby all property owners, including buy to let landlords, will be compelled to improve energy efficiency.
When essential repairs and property maintenance work is carried out, the property owner will have to choose the green option, so if a boiler needs replacing, instead of opting for a cheaper model, you will be forced to pay extra for an energy efficient condenser boiler instead.
The Communities and Local Government Department (CLG) insists repairs will have to be viable and is proposing to make available loans to fund the work, but at the end of the day, smaller landlords might not be able to afford expensive repairs, which will inevitably lead to a rise in “cowboy” traders cashing in on the demand.
At the moment, the proposals are still in draft form, so watch this space.
