A purple graphic with illustrations showing the outlines of two houses. Includes the words "tackling cold rented homes in Suffolk"

[Source: East Suffolk Council]

Landlords and those with an interest in privately rented housing are invited to attend an online conference later this month.

Organised by East Suffolk Council’s Private Sector Housing Team on behalf of all Suffolk local authorities, ‘Tackling Cold Rented Homes in Suffolk’ takes place on Thursday 28 July.

Open to landlords, lettings agents, tenants, local authority employees, domestic energy assessors and contractors, the half-day digital conference will explore the work done across Suffolk to identify poorly performing rented homes, the support offered to landlords to improve conditions and how to reduce costs for tenants.

The conference will also cover compliance with the law, the challenges of Listed Buildings, how to access funding and much more.

Cllr Richard Kerry, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Housing said:

“Work is underway across Suffolk to help landlords ensure their properties meet the legal requirements for energy efficiency, which will provide more comfortable conditions for tenants, and reduce fuel costs. I would encourage landlords, letting agents and all within the private rented housing sector to attend this conference to learn more.”

View the full programme and book your place.

To improve the quality of private rented buildings in England and Wales, Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations were introduced by the Government in 2018.

Private rented properties must currently achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E. The MEES legislation prevents landlords from renting out a property with a rating of F or G. Non-compliance with MEES can incur a fine of up to £5,000.

Supported by the Government funding, work is being done by all Suffolk councils to investigate any potential breaches of the MEES regulations and in the first instance, look to support landlords to make improvements.

More on MEES and energy efficiency.

Financial help and advice is available to tenants who are at risk from living in a cold and energy inefficient home.