Landlords seeking to make their properties more energy efficient are reminded that they are entitled to help under the ‘Landlord’s Energy Saving Allowance’ (LESA) scheme.
Available since 2004, LESA is a tax allowance of up to £1,500 per property for private landlords. But many landlords still remain in the dark over its existence.
LESA gives landlords the potential to improve their energy inefficient properties at no cost to themselves and in doing so, will help tenants to save money on their energy bills. Energy efficient properties can achieve a higher EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating, so for example by installing loft insulation, draught-proofing or cavity wall insulation, all these measures will increase the rental potential, making the property more attractive in an overcrowded rental market.
Implementing energy efficiency measures will also not only lower energy bills for tenants, but it should, in theory, help reduce rent arrears.
Under LESA, landlords are entitled to claim against money spent on:
- cavity wall insulation
- draught-proofing
- solid wall insulation
- loft insulation
- hot water system insulation (tank and pipe lagging)
- floor insulation.
For more information, landlords are advised to get in touch with their local tax office who will be able to advise them accordingly. It’s also worth visiting www.direct.gov.uk
