Issue - meetings

The Cabinet is requested to consider the report and its appendix and make the following resolutions:

1.    That Cabinet approves The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 – Civil Penalty Policy

2.    That Cabinet delegates the enforcement powers and ability to issue civil penalties in relation to the EnergyEfficiency (PrivateRented Property)(England andWales) Regulations 2015to the Director of Housing and Communities.

3.    That the monies received through the issuing of fines are used to meet the cost and expenses incurred in, or associated with, carrying out any such enforcement work.

RESOLVED

1.    That Cabinet approves The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 – Civil Penalty Policy.

2.    That Cabinet delegates the enforcement powers and ability to issue civil penalties in relation to the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 to the Director of Housing and Communities.

3.    That the monies received through the issuing of fines are used to meet the cost and expenses incurred in, or associated with, carrying out any such enforcement work.

Cllr Sutton introduced the item.

Cllr Dignum asked whether similar regulations apply to registered providers. Mrs Reed confirmed that registered providers are required to have an EPC but there is no minimum level to that EPC. She added that the Government is encouraging registered providers to improve their provision with associated funding available.

Cllr Taylor asked how the council would be proactive to ensure properties are up to standard. Mrs Reed explained that the project has allowed a targeted approach to F and G rated properties. She added that in September 2021 there were 461 properties at that level which following engaging with landlords  has now reduced to 90.

Cllr Lintill asked what would happen after the project. Mrs Reed explained that it was likely that the work would continue within the team.

Cllr Briscoe asked if there is a green homes grant. Mrs Reed explained that there is Eco funding provided by energy providers to those on low income subject to their landlords agreement.

Cllr Plant asked about properties in conservation areas and can anything be done to improve them. Mrs Reed explained that properties in conservation areas are not exempt if low impact improvements that do not affect the appearance can be made. The project has allowed officers to explain to landlords  of older properties how  energy efficient changes can be made.

In a vote the following resolutions were made:

RESOLVED

1. That Cabinet approves The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 – Civil Penalty Policy
2. That Cabinet delegates the enforcement powers and ability to issue civil penalties in relation to the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 to the Director of Housing and Communities.
3. That the monies received through the issuing of fines are used to meet the cost and expenses incurred in, or associated with, carrying out any such enforcement work.