As the UK takes strides toward a net-zero future, Vibrant Energy Matters is here to address your top heat pump questions. Whether you’re exploring this sustainable solution for your business or personal property, we’ve got the answers. Can solar panels fully power a heat pump? While solar panels can generate significant electricity for a heat pump, they can't guarantee full coverage year-round. Factors like roof size and your home’s heating needs to play a role. Pairing solar with battery storage enhances efficiency, helping store daytime surplus to power your heat pump at night. What tariffs work best for heat pumps? Transitioning to a heat pump increases electricity use while reducing reliance on gas or oil. Opt for cost-effective electricity tariffs, such as time-of-use tariffs, to keep expenses in check. Considering removing gas appliances can further streamline costs by eliminating standing charges. How can I make a heat pump more efficient? Heat pumps excel at lower temperatures. Optimise efficiency by properly insulating your home , ensuring hot water pipes are well-fitted, and selecting the right cylinder size for your needs. Our experts ensure every detail aligns with your property. Are heat pumps suitable for older, less insulated homes? Yes! However, improving insulation alongside installation enhances performance. Schemes like the Great British Insulation Scheme can help fund upgrades. Set heating to steady levels, and use a timer for gradual, efficient warmth during colder months. What’s next for heat pump technology? While air-to-water systems dominate the UK market, we anticipate growth in air-to-air heat pumps. These systems are ideal for smaller spaces, homes without radiators, and even offer cooling options - key benefits for the future of sustainable living. Do Heat Pumps work when temperatures drop below zero? Yes, absolutely! When a Heatpump system has been designed and installed correctly they will keep your home warm even in the coldest temperatures in the UK. In fact, the countries with the highest level of Heat Pump adoption are Norway (635 heat pumps per 1,000 households), Finland (512 heat pumps per 1,000 households) and Sweden (437 heat pumps per household). Winters in these countries are, on average 6-10 degrees C cooler than in the UK. At Vibrant Energy Matters, we don’t just install heat pumps - we’re your partners in creating energy-efficient spaces. Ready to learn more? Reach out today .

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) sets the benchmark for energy efficiency in privately rented properties across England and Wales. Ensuring your property meets these standards is not just about compliance - it’s about improving property quality, reducing carbon emissions, and helping tenants lower their energy costs.    What Is MEES?  Introduced to enhance the energy efficiency of privately rented properties, MEES legislation requires an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least an E for domestic properties.  Since April 2018, new tenancies cannot begin for properties with an EPC rating below E unless an exemption applies and from April 2020, the requirement was extended to cover existing tenancies unless the property’s EPC expired before April 2018 under a longstanding tenancy.  These regulations are part of the UK’s broader strategy to improve housing quality and achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.  Landlords will need to meet a MEES requirement of a C in 2030 – meaning there’s a need to act now to avoid last-minute delays and supply chain price hikes etc. By acting now, landlords can benefit from knowing their properties meet MEES standards and have met their legal obligations, as well as adding value to their properties in the long-term.   Why MEES Matters The UK has some of Europe’s poorest-performing buildings for energy efficiency. Over 29 million homes require upgrades to meet climate targets, making MEES a vital step towards reducing emissions.  Also, an estimated 35% of fuel-poor households in England are in the Private Rented Sector. Poor energy efficiency leads to high bills, uncomfortable living conditions, and health risks for tenants. MEES aims to set a minimum standard that benefits both landlords and tenants.    What Landlords Need to Know  To comply with MEES, landlords must:  Ensure a Valid EPC Obtain or renew the property’s EPC. This document provides the current rating and recommends improvements.  Meet EPC Requirements A rating of E or above is mandatory. If your property doesn’t meet this, improvement options are available.  Legal Considerations A valid EPC is required for actions like issuing a Section 21 notice to regain possession of a property.  Non-compliance with MEES regulations can lead to fines of up to £5,000.    What If a Property Falls Below the Minimum Standard?    If a property’s EPC rating is below E, landlords can explore several options:  Make Energy Efficiency Improvements Work with us to identify cost-effective upgrades. We will provide recommendations on how to improve energy efficiency as well as the best upgrades to make in the property. Seek Government Funding Take advantage of available grants to offset the costs of improvements:  Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) : offers up to £7,500 to replace traditional systems with heat pumps or biomass boilers.  Energy Company Obligation (ECO4): provides free or discounted insulation and heating upgrades for low-income households with an EPC of D or below.  For details, contact us today . We will apply for funding on your behalf and our expert team will install the necessary upgrades.  Apply for an Exemption If improvements are not feasible, landlords can apply for an exemption under specific criteria, such as: All recommended improvements already completed Consent from tenants or third parties is unavailable Wall insulation causing damage Property devaluation Exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register and are linked to the landlord, not the property. A new landlord must re-register if the exemption still applies. At Vibrant , we can apply for exemptions on behalf of landlords, ensuring all relevant and legal requirements are adhered to and put in place.   Staying compliant with MEES ensures your property meets modern energy standards while reducing costs and improving tenant satisfaction, while contributing to a greener, more efficient future for the UK housing market.

The Renters’ Rights Bill 2024 is set to bring fairer, safer, and more secure renting conditions for both landlords and the millions of renters across the UK. With this legislation, tenants gain more rights, and landlords have clearer responsibilities, and we’ve broken down the key changes and what they mean. Greater Security for Tenants One of the landmark features of the bill is the abolition of ‘no-fault’ evictions under Section 21. This change means that renters can no longer be evicted without a legitimate reason, providing them with a greater sense of stability and security in their homes. The bill also introduces minimum fixed-term contracts, helping tenants feel more confident in their housing situation. Stronger Protections for Housing Standards In a step towards sustainable housing, the bill will enforce minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties. For tenants, this translates into better-insulated homes, lower energy bills, and a reduced environmental footprint. Alongside this, the bill addresses housing conditions, ensuring all rented properties meet safety standards related to issues like damp, mould, and adequate heating. Tenants will have the right to live in well-maintained homes that support their health and well-being. Greater Transparency in Renting Practices A cap on rent increases will be brought in to ensure rents are kept fair and affordable, allowing tenants to budget more effectively without the fear of sudden, steep rent hikes. With clear guidelines on security deposits and fees, tenants can expect more transparent rental costs upfront, reducing financial surprises and making it easier to plan for their housing expenses.   For landlords, this bill means that rented homes will need to be stable, affordable, and offer healthy living environments. With renters having the right to a safe , energy-efficient home without the fear of sudden eviction, this gives them peace of mind. The bill also offers landlords stability in terms of long-term renters and their properties increasing in value due to energy-efficient products being installed or upgraded – and safety standards within the property increasing.  At Vibrant Energy Matters, we’re committed to supporting landlords in navigating these new regulations smoothly. Our team provides property assessments and guidance to ensure landlords meet energy efficiency and safety standards, ultimately creating healthier, more sustainable properties. As part of our commitment, we also install the energy upgrades , and solutions, through our highly-vetted and accredited network of installers. At Vibrant we believe it’s important to understand why landlords should act promptly in upgrading their properties for several reasons: Delaying until tighter MEES legislation is enforced will pressure the supply chain, which is already experiencing a shortage of high-quality installers in this sector. This will naturally lead to increased installation costs. Investing in eco-friendly measures offers broader benefits, including the potential for higher rental rates, reduced tenant turnover, and preservation of the property’s capital value and marketability. Currently, landlords can take advantage of various government funding options, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme , the Great British Insulation Scheme, and ECO4, among others. These programs are set to expire in the near future, so taking full advantage of these financial aids requires prompt action.   The Renters’ Rights Bill 2024 marks a significant shift in the UK’s rental market, promoting fairness, transparency, and respect for renters' rights. If you’re a landlord looking to understand these new requirements and aiming to meet the new legal obligations as early as possible, contact us today to find out how we can help.

Every year, as autumn arrives and the temperature starts to drop, we all think about this common question: when is the right time to turn the heating on? It’s obvious to turn the heating on when you begin to feel cold, especially if anyone in your household is an older person or is someone with a medical condition, and when temperatures begin to fall to 15°C or below, more of us are likely to turn up the thermostat. One Degree Makes A Big Difference The key to saving money while still feeling comfortable is setting your room thermostat correctly. A good range is between 18°C and 21°C, which ensures the heating comes on only when needed and helps prevent overheating your home in winter. By lowering your thermostat from 22°C to 21°C, in most UK households could save up to £90 a year. Choose the Best Time of The Day It’s generally helpful to have your heating come on about half an hour before you wake up in the morning and turn off about half an hour before bedtime. This will save money instead of the boiler consistently being on, while you’ll also wake up without feeling cold and go to bed comfortably warm. If you're out during the day, you can turn the heating off while no one’s home. Is it Better to Leave the Heating on All Day? If you have a boiler, it’s more efficient to only turn the heating on when you need it rather than leaving it running all day, which will use more energy and cost more. However, with a heat pump, it can be more cost-effective to leave the heating on all day. Check out our tips on Heat Pumps vs Traditional Heating: Which Is Better for Your Home?   Preparing your Boiler for Colder Weather Even if you’re delaying turning on the heating for the moment, it’s important to ensure your boiler is in good working order. After being off all summer, now’s the time to check for any issues. If you haven’t already done so, book your annual boiler service now to avoid emergency repairs later. As winter approaches, it’s harder to book an engineer as quickly as you’d like.   Upgrade your Heating System Before winter properly sets in, you should consider upgrading your central heating system. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is currently open for applications and will run until December 31, 2027, giving homeowners ample time to make the switch to a more sustainable heating solution.    Government-funded, the scheme supports homeowners in England, Wales and Scotland in transitioning to low-carbon heating systems - offering grants of up to £7,500 for both air source and ground source heat pumps and up to £5,000 for Biomass Boilers. Read more about how we can help you access these funds here .   Consider a Smart Thermostat Smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust your heating to keep you comfortable. You can often schedule temperature settings and control your heating remotely through an app, allowing you to turn the heating off while you’re out and have it on by the time you return home.   Insulation Top Up Something as simple as topping up your loft insulation could mean that your heating system must work less to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. Warm air naturally rises, so if you have insufficient insulation across the roof space this could be acting like a chimney and allowing the warm air to leak straight out the top of your property.  Replacing ineffective loft insulation with newly installed material with a thickness of 300mm could save the average home over £250 on their heating bill over the year.   For more information and expert tips on how to reduce energy costs with pioneering, sustainable solutions, check out our Insights page and for more information on the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, read our expert blog . Start your money-saving journey today and look to a more energy-efficient future, by booking your very own Vibrant Energy Saving Audit today. We’ll help you reduce your property's carbon footprint while increasing your property value and reducing your bills. Book your energy audit now .

As energy costs rise and concerns for the environment grow amongst the eco-conscious, homeowners and landlords alike are searching for more efficient and sustainable heating solutions that will both lower energy bills, add value to a property and contribute to a greener UK. The most popular options have long been traditional heating systems such as boilers but, now, more people are becoming aware of the benefits of installing heat pumps which can significantly lower energy costs while reducing a property’s carbon footprint. But, what are the differences between heat pumps and traditional heating? We’re the UK’s trusted property partner and will help you understand the differences between these systems so you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your energy usage, environmental goals and what system will suit you best. How Do They Work? Heat Pumps: Heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate it. They work by extracting heat from the outside air, ground, or water and transferring it indoors. This process can be reversed to provide cooling in the summer, making heat pumps a versatile and useful year-round solution. Heat pumps are highly efficient, producing up to three times more energy than they consume. Their efficiency depends on the external temperature; the milder the climate, the more efficient the heat pump. Traditional Heating: Traditional heating systems, such as boilers , or electric heaters, generate heat by burning fuel (like natural gas, oil, or propane) or using electrical resistance. The heat produced is then distributed throughout the home i.e. via pipes (for boilers). The efficiency of traditional heating systems can vary widely. They still rely on fuel combustion, which results in energy loss and greenhouse gas emissions. The older the boiler, the less eco-conscious and sustainable it is likely to be. Energy Efficiency Heat Pumps: One of the biggest advantages of heat pumps is their energy efficiency . They can produce 3-4 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricity consumed. This efficiency is especially beneficial in moderate climates, where the temperature doesn’t drop too low, resulting in much lower energy bills compared to traditional heating systems. These savings can be maximised by selecting an energy tariff that are specifically designed for people that have a heat pump installed. Heat pumps can be programmed to maximise the use of lower rate electricity when the demand on the grid is reduced. There are cases where homeowners have been able to save an additional £150+ plus per year by moving on to peat pump specific tariffs. Traditional Heating: While some traditional heating systems have improved in efficiency, they still rely on fuel combustion, which inherently leads to energy loss. High-efficiency models can help, but they don’t match the overall efficiency potential of heat pumps. Cost Comparison Operating Cost: Heat pumps can offer significant savings in operating costs over time compared to traditional heating systems. Their higher efficiency can lower energy bills, especially in regions with milder winters. Environmental Impact Heat Pumps: Heat pumps are more environmentally friendly because they transfer heat rather than burning fossil fuels. When paired with renewable energy sources like solar or wind, they can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Traditional Heating: Traditional systems typically rely on fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Even though modern systems are more efficient, they still produce emissions that impact the environment. Both heat pumps and traditional heating systems have their strengths and weaknesses. Your choice will depend on various factors like budget, and environmental concerns. Heat pumps offer greater efficiency, long-term costs and environmental benefits, while traditional heating systems rely on fossil fuels and a negative environmental impact. For an in-depth conversation about the benefits of heat pumps, and how we can help you find funding and also install this sustainable solution, get in touch with our expert team today. Contact Us

At Vibrant Energy Matters, we’re delighted to announce our latest partnership with Santander, designed to help homes become more energy-efficient and sustainable living spaces. We’re offering existing Santander mortgage and personal current account customers a free Vibrant Energy Saving Audit and an EPC report . The best part? You can rely on us to handle all your home improvement needs! What’s Included? Our Vibrant Energy Saving Audit is more than just an energy assessment, it also provides an EPC report alongside: Detailed insights into your home’s energy efficiency which will help you develop a comprehensive understanding of how your home uses energy and will identify key areas for improvement . We connect you with trusted professionals and verified suppliers and installers who can execute the necessary home improvements. We oversee the entire process, ensuring that the work is carried out to the highest standards and with minimal hassle for you. Why Choose Us? By opting for Vibrant, the UK’s trusted property partner, you can discover how to make your home more energy-efficient, which can lead to significant savings on your energy bills and will contribute to a smaller carbon footprint. Here’s what you can expect: Our thorough expert analysis which is included in our EPC assessment will give you a clear picture of your home’s energy usage. We’ll provide a customised report highlighting the most effective improvements for your property and specifically tailored recommendations: With our network of verified professionals and our project management support, upgrading your home’s energy efficiency has never been easier. Benefits of an Energy-Efficient Home Making your home more energy-efficient doesn’t just save you money, it also contributes to a sustainable environment. Energy-efficient measures such as improved insulation, solar panels, airsource heat pumps, and modern heating systems can significantly reduce your home’s energy consumption, making your living space more comfortable and eco-friendly.   Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your home’s energy efficiency and sustainability and start your journey towards a greener home today. Embrace a more sustainable future with Vibrant Energy Matters and Santander. Your home, your savings, and the planet will thank you. Ready to get started? Click here to learn more and sign up for your free Vibrant Energy Savings Audit and EPC report: Offer | EPC Plus Report | Santander ( vibrantepcplus.co.uk )

Staying ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving landscape of the property sector is essential for success! As the UK’s leading property services company, we offer a tool that has emerged as a profit maker for savvy estate agents: our premier service, the EPC Plus. But what exactly is the EPC Plus, and how can it help an estate agent make profit and set you apart from the competition? The EPC, or Energy Performance Certificate, has long been a mandatory requirement for properties being sold or rented in the UK. This service provides key information about a property’s energy efficiency, helping both buyers and landlords to make informed decisions regarding energy efficiency, improving sustainability and saving on bills. But what sets the EPC Plus apart is its enhanced assessment and fully-rounded service. In addition to the standard energy efficiency rating, the EPC Plus includes extra information, such as recommendations from our expert surveyors for improving energy efficiency, estimated energy costs, and potential savings. It also offers insights into renewable energy options, such as solar panels or heat pumps, tailored to each property. Differentiation and Added Value In a competitive market, standing out is crucial. Offering the EPC Plus to landlords and future home owners sets you apart as a forward-thinking estate agent committed to providing tangible value to your service offering, enhancing your reputation and attracting more clients. Increased Sales Potential Properties with higher energy efficiency ratings are not only more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers and tenants but also command higher prices and rents. By leveraging the EPC Plus to highlight a property's energy-saving features and potential cost savings, you can increase its appeal and ultimately its market value. Monetisation Opportunities Beyond traditional sales and rentals, the EPC Plus opens up a new revenue streams for estate agents. By partnering with Vibrant Energy Matters, you can purchase our EPC Plus for £50+VAT, per property, and with every install completed by our team, you will earn £200 commission. This helps to capitalise on the growing demand for sustainable living and maximise earnings. Compliance and Risk Mitigation Staying compliant with regulations is paramount. The EPC Plus ensures adherence to energy efficiency requirements while also mitigating risks, providing a proactive approach to compliance. Future-Proofing Your Business As sustainability becomes increasingly important to consumers, investing in the EPC Plus positions your business for long-term success. By aligning with emerging trends and consumer preferences, you future-proof your business and ensure its relevance in a rapidly evolving market.   The EPC Plus is not just a regulatory requirement. It’s a powerful tool for driving profitability and sustainability. By embracing the EPC Plus, estate agents can differentiate themselves, increase property values, unlock new revenue streams, and future-proof their businesses. It’s not just a certificate; it's a pathway to success in the modern industry.

The allure of an off-grid lifestyle has never been stronger, due to more and more of us becoming increasingly conscious and aware of environmental impacts and the benefits of sustainable living. Disconnecting from the traditional utility grid not only offers a range of benefits but also allows us to contribute to a greener planet without sacrificing any home comforts. At Vibrant Energy Matters , our bronze, silver and gold Get Off Grid packages enable you to take control of your energy use, reduce your environmental impact, and embrace a more self-sufficient and fulfilling life. Let’s explore the advantages of getting off-grid and find out more about the benefits it brings: One of the most compelling reasons to go off-grid is the energy independence it provides. Relying on your own energy sources, means you are no longer at the mercy of utility companies. This independence brings a sense of security, knowing that your energy supply is always there when you need it. An off-grid energy supply significantly reduces your carbon footprint. By generating your own renewable energy, you minimise reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. This shift contributes to combatting climate change and promotes a cleaner, healthier environment. Moreover, off-grid living often encourages a more sustainable lifestyle, with an emphasis on conservation and mindful consumption. Once the infrastructure is in place, the ongoing costs are minimal – and with our Gold Package, non-existent - compared to traditional utility bills. Many off-grid systems have a lifespan of 20-30 years, during which time you can save thousands of pounds. Additionally, advancements in technology and government incentives can further reduce the financial burden of transitioning to off-grid living. The growing interest in off-grid living is driving innovation in renewable energy technologies and sustainable practices. By adopting an off-grid lifestyle, you become part of a movement that encourages the development of more efficient and affordable renewable energy solutions. This progress benefits not only those living off-grid but also contributes to global advancements in sustainability. Embark on the journey to off-grid living and experience a new, sustainable way of life for you and your family, by downloading our exclusive Get Off-Grid guide here: https://www.vibrantenergymatters.co.uk/get-off-grid-hvco

Making the decision to go off-grid extends beyond financial savings and also underpins values of environmental sustainability, energy security , a healthier living environment, and reducing your carbon footprint. By adopting off-grid living, you contribute to a greener future while reaping the rewards of a more independent and fulfilling lifestyle. Our brand new, exclusive Get Off Grid bronze, silver and gold packages are suitable for all budgets and requirements. Whether you want to make the first steps into getting off=grid, have started lowering your utility bills but aren’t quite ready to commit fully or are ready to start reaping all the benefits of an off-grid lifestyle, we have something for you. At Vibrant Energy Matters , a key goal since our beginnings has been to empower homeowners with the tools, and services, they need to acknowledge they can achieve greater energy independence through sustainable, eco-friendly and affordable solutions. One way to achieving this independence is going off-grid . But what does this term really mean for homeowners across the UK? Choosing to go off-grid brings numerous benefits to the lifestyle of you and your family but also requires careful planning. Here’s what you can expect when you make the change to an off-grid lifestyle: ·       One of the most immediate benefits is the reduction in energy bill consumption. By generating your own power, you no longer have to pay utility companies. Our Gold Package enables you to be cost-free. ·       Homes equipped with sustainable energy systems are becoming more attractive to buyers. As energy prices rise and environmental awareness grows, an off-grid home can command a higher price, increasing its overall value and attractiveness on the market. ·       By generating your own clean, renewable energy it reduces your carbon footprint and contributes to a healthier environment. This not only benefits you but also helps in the global effort to combat climate change. ·       We have access to various funds and grants, to help you transition to an off-grid system. ·       Sustainable systems can be tailored to meet your specific needs and can be scaled over time. As your energy requirements grow or as new technologies become readily available, you can expand your system. From assessing your energy needs to installing sustainable solutions and providing ongoing support, we’ll guide you through every step of the process to help you enjoy a seamless transition to going off-grid. Download our expert, comprehensive guide to getting off-grid here: https://www.vibrantenergymatters.co.uk/get-off-grid-hvco

A Skipton Building Society member recently moved into their property and wanted to address several issues that were identified in the pre-purchase Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and structural survey. The primary concerns were improving the outdated heating system and installing a photovoltaic (PV) system for better energy efficiency within the property, leading to long-term savings. The homeowner faced significant challenges in finding contractors willing to undertake the necessary improvements, leading to frustration and delays. That is, until, as a Skipton Building Society member, the customer came across Vibrant’s partnership with the bank: a free EPC Plus assessment , alongside recommendations on energy efficient products and installations. The customer got in touch with us, and soon after this, a member of our Energy Audit team attended the address and outlined these initial findings upon speaking with the customer:   Challenges An old, unreliable heating system that was not energy-efficient by modern standards. Difficulty in engaging contractors due to high demand and lack of interest. A desire to increase energy self-reliance and achieve long-term economic savings through the installation of a PV system.   Solution Vibrant Energy Matters conducted a Vibrant Energy Saving Audit and referred the homeowner to one of our preferred contractors, Custom Heat/Electric, to explore their options. Then, detailed discussions and consideration of alternatives culminated in an agreed scheme for the new heating and PV systems. The installations were then carried out. We provided ongoing support and periodic check-ins to ensure progress and compliance with the agreed plan.   Outcome The new energy systems at the property are highly efficient and reliable, significantly enhancing the property’s overall energy performance. The PV system has increased the homeowner’s energy self-reliance and will provide long-term economic benefits. The post-installation Vibrant Energy Audit, showed an improvement in the property's rating from E to C. The homeowner was impressed with the support and coordination provided by Vibrant throughout the process. “ Having recently moved to the property, we were frustrated with attempting to engage contractors for necessary improvements to our heating system and to install a PV system. By chance, we identified the EPC Plus service through Vibrant. They connected us with a preferred contractor, and after detailed discussions, we agreed on the proposed scheme. The works were carried out during the summer, and Vibrant periodically checked in to ensure progress. Our EPC rating improved from E to C, and we now have a much-improved, efficient system .”   At Vibrant Energy Matters, we effectively address homeowners’ energy efficiency needs by providing comprehensive assessments, contractor referrals, and ongoing support, resulting in significant improvements in energy performance and customer satisfaction. Get in touch with us today to arrange a Vibrant Energy Saving Audit or to discuss how our partnerships have led us to become the UK’s trusted property partner. Contact | Vibrant ( vibrantenergymatters.co.uk )

Sustainability matters more than ever and rather than developing ecologically-positive habits as a choice, at Vibrant we are aware that the habits of property owners and tenants carry significant weight in shaping the future of our planet. From the materials we choose for construction and repairs, to the energy sources we rely on, every decision has an effect on the environment. Here, we’ll explore and offer insights and strategies on five property habits that can not only minimise our ecological footprint but also help pave the way for a more sustainable future. We’re focused on empowering a greener tomorrow, one property at a time.   Fix ‘Small Repairs’ Does a window have a draught or is there a leaky tap you keep meaning to sort out? These might not seem like pressing issues in the short term, but they have the potential to cause much more damage in the long run. Over time, small repairs can escalate, quickly turning into expensive disasters. A draughty window could be costing you hundreds in extra heating costs over the year, compared to the price of getting it fixed right away, and a leaky tap can not only cause you to spend more on your water bill but can also become a source of mould and can create a build-up of water in the pipes of a property.   Give Up Cutting Corners Shelling out for a permanent fix can often be something we avoid, leading us to choose a cheaper, temporary fix that will only suffice in the short term. However, continuing to spend money on temporary solutions soon adds up and could end up costing you more than the permanent fix in the end.   Give Up Putting Off Your Annual Property Check Up It’s important to be reactive when it comes to maintaining our homes. We notice something is broken, and then we fix it. However, the way to ensure we get the best out of our investment is to be proactive in the way we treat our homes. Preventative spending could save you from a lot of unexpected costs so make room in your budget to get your CO alarm tested and your boiler serviced yearly and you may notice a difference in your overall spending.   Don’t Forget to Test Your Smoke Alarm This could be the difference between life and death. Our property services inspections incorporate a full check-up of important aspects of a home such as checking if a smoke alarm is working properly. Ensure your home is fully compliant and legal with our expert team of assessors.   Give up Hiring Poor Contractors   Before hiring a contractor to perform any repairs or installations to your home, be sure to shop around and get quotes as this will give you an accurate representation of how much the repair is likely to cost. You’ll also want to get some references for the contractor you do choose to employ, such as checking reviews on Trustpilot . Our team of surveyors and assessors are fully-trained, vetted and experienced in performing installations to the highest quality.   We are the UK’s leading property services company, trusted by property owners, estate agents, landlords, lenders, councils and corporate entities. It’s our job to make sure properties are fully compliant, giving you peace of mind and the rewards of a sustainable and safe home. Find out more about who we are and what we do, here: Property Practitioners - Vibrant Energy Matters

House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), commonly known as house shares, are a popular choice for accommodation across the UK. They offer significant benefits, including cost savings for tenants and tax reliefs for owners. However, managing an HMO comes with its own set of regulatory requirements to ensure safety and compliance. What is an HMO? An HMO is a property rented out by at least three people who are not from one 'household' (i.e., a family) but share facilities like the bathroom and kitchen. It’s a popular setup among students and professionals in urban areas. If your property fits this description and houses three or more tenants, it likely needs to be registered as an HMO with your local council and requires a specific HMO license. HMO Licensing Responsibilities The responsibility for obtaining an HMO license falls on the landlord or the managing agent. Operating an HMO without a license is illegal and can lead to an unlimited fine. The licensing is essential as it ensures that the property meets safety standards that protect tenants. HMO License Renewal and Inspections An HMO license is valid for five years. Landlords must reapply for renewal before the current license expires to continue operating legally. Regular inspections, recommended 2 to 3 times a year, play a critical role in maintaining the standards of the property. These inspections help identify and resolve any issues that could affect the tenants' safety and comfort. Requirements for an HMO License To comply with HMO regulations, landlords must meet several safety obligations, including: Gas Safety: An updated gas safety certificate must be submitted annually. Fire Safety: Install and maintain smoke alarms throughout the property. Electrical Safety: Provide safety certificates for all electrical appliances upon request. These requirements are designed to ensure that all facilities provided are safe and well maintained. Why Choose Vibrant for Your HMO Compliance Needs? At Vibrant, we understand the complexities involved in managing an HMO. We offer expert services to help you achieve and maintain compliance without hassle. Our services include assistance with acquiring your HMO license and bundled rates for the additional certificates required, ensuring your application is successful and your property remains compliant. Conclusion Running an HMO can be highly profitable, but it comes with the responsibility of ensuring the safety and well-being of your tenants. By staying compliant with HMO regulations, you not only avoid legal penalties but also provide a safe and attractive living space for tenants. Trust Vibrant to help you navigate these requirements efficiently and effectively. Ready to ensure your HMO property meets all legal requirements? Contact Vibrant today to discuss how we can assist you with your HMO compliance needs, from licensing to regular safety inspections. Let us help you keep your property safe, compliant, and profitable.