Go green energy The council is currently engaged in a government funded home insulation scheme to raise the energy efficiency of homes in Erewash. The Local Authority Delivery, (LAD), scheme is also helping to reduce fuel poverty, heating costs and the carbon emissions of low income households. Whilst there are a number of measures which will improve energy efficiency, the LAD scheme concentrates on the installation of external wall insulation and solar panels to generate electricity. The council has partnered with E.ON, who have identified eligible households, carried out property surveys and specified the energy improvement measures to be installed.
Eligible households have also been given support by Marches Energy Agency, to help them with the application and installation of measures as well as providing advice and support with other aspects of fuel poverty. The first phase of the scheme in Erewash is due to be completed at the end of this month, however it is likely that a new scheme will follow. If you require any free and independent advice to help you with reducing your energy costs please contact Marches Energy Agency on 0800 677 1332 or email wdd@mea.org.uk Energy saving tips can also be found on the council’s website: erewash.gov.uk/housing-section/ home-energy-advice
Let’s be energy efficienct
Since 1 April 2020 private landlords in England have been prohibited by law from letting a property on an assured tenancy agreement unless it has a minimum energy performance rating of E on the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Government has recognised that rented properties rated F and G on the EPC for the property were wasting energy and that increasing the home’s energy efficiency would help to reduce carbon emissions and energy costs for tenants.
The council wishes to work with landlords who provide muchneeded accommodation throughout the borough to provide safe and more energy efficient homes. It has identified a number of privately rented properties which do not meet these standards. Landlords are being asked to ensure their properties achieve a minimum energy performance rating of E or better to avoid any further action by the council. Landlords are urged to check their EPCs online at the Gov.uk website to make sure their properties meet these standards and comply with the law. If you need any further information please check the guidance for landlords called “Domestic private rented property: minimum energy efficiency standard - landlord guidance” available through the Gov.uk website or check the council’s website.
Landlord support
Erewash Borough Council provides private sector landlords with free, impartial support to try and resolve any issues. We recognise that both landlords and their tenants have suffered due to the pandemic and we are here to help. We want to avoid a potential rise in evictions and homelessness and urge people to seek help early. Call B4 You serve is designed to listen to landlords and help them navigate any tenancy issues before they serve an eviction notice and can also assist to provide direct support to their tenants. The initiative includes: •
Support for landlords and tenants in what can be a very stressful time
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Help to create a personalised housing plan agreed between the landlord and tenant
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Rent arrears help and financial assessments
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Referrals and signposting to specialist services for more long-term support if needed
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A mediation service between landlords, tenants and the council
Landlords can get in touch with the service by calling 01332 641408 or emailing CB4YS@derby.gov.uk Tenants can request support by emailing homelessness@erewash.gov.uk 17
