Monday 7 December 2020

Latest changes for Landlords to Energy Performance in the private rented sector

 

The Scottish Government is planning to amend the minimum requirements for Energy Performance for the private rented sector. We understand from the Scottish Association of Landlords that the regulations will be amended such that properties will need to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of least:

  • EPC of D at a change of tenancy from 1 April 2022; and
  • All rental properties must have an EPC rating of D by 31 March 2025.

This will remove the requirement to achieve at least an E rating which has now been removed because of Covid.

Landlords should review their EPC rating to start planning for any improvements they will need to make over the next 18 months.

The regulations will provide for some exemptions, including where:

  • It is not technically feasible to carry out improvements
  • Where other owners in a block of flats refuse consent to do work to common parts of the building
  • Where tenants refuse consent for work
  • Where permission to carry out work to a property which is listed or in a conservation area cannot be obtained
  • Where the cost of improvements needed exceeds £10000

If you need advice on what you need to do to bring your property up to the required standard, we will be happy to help.

 

Friday 19 June 2020

Scottish Letting and Sales market to Open Up from 29th June



The Scottish Government has now confirmed that from 29 June, you will be allowed to leave home to ‘undertake certain activities in connection with the purchase, sale, letting or rental of a residential property’.

From that date you will be able to visit estate or letting agents, developer sales offices or show homes.  Viewings of residential properties will be permitted.

We have been able to support our landlords and tenants, offering virtual viewings and have been able to assist tenants in a safe manner who have needed to move.

We look forward to continuing to work with our tenants and landlords in a safe and physically distanced way.

If you need any advice on managing your residential property, we will be happy to help.

Wednesday 29 January 2020

Glasgow house price growth forecast to be 3rd fastest in the UK in 2020



Glasgow’s house prices are predicted to outperform most other cities in the UK in 2020.  According to Zoopla’s Cities House Price Index report, ‘Nottingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow rank as the top three cities with the strongest prospects in 2020.’’

This echoes our view that Glasgow remains an attractive place for Buy To Let investors with strong tenant demand supported by a diverse and growing economy. 

We have recently advised a number of private landlords on purchasing suitable buy-to-let properties.

According to the report, the UK recorded 3.9% house price growth in 2019. With London growth at 1.9%, Glasgow out paced this at 3.4%. 

Contact us to find out how we can help.

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