Property inspections are a landlord’s foremost means of maintaining the value of the property and ensuring compliance and peace of mind. In the event of a sale, let or repossession of a property, timeous property inspections also safeguard the landlord and mortgage lender against financial risk. There are three types of property inspections that landlords and asset managers are responsible for, including Property Assessment Reports (PAR), House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) license and mid-term inspections. Property Assessment Report (PAR) The PAR comes into play when a home is repossessed and sold.  It’s a “mystery shop” report that asset managers conduct on behalf of mortgage lenders to independently gauge if the customer received fair treatment in the sale of a repossessed property. House in Multiple Occupation license (HMO) There are many financial benefits to letting a house per room, such as tax relief for the landlord, more affordable rental rates for tenants and the potential for earning a higher income from more tenants in a single property. However, in the words of French writer, Voltaire, “with great power comes great responsibility” and with house sharing carrying additional safety risks, additional regulations apply to protect occupants’ safety. Gov.co.uk defines an HMO as a property where three or more tenants from more than one household live in a space where they share a bathroom, toilet and/or kitchen, and at least one of the tenants pays rent ( https://www.gov.uk/house-in-multiple-occupation-licence ). An HMO license is valid for a fixed term of five years and the landlord or managing agent has to apply for a renewal before the old license expires. Operating an HMO without a license is an offence that is now subject to an unlimited fine. Once an HMO license is obtained, the landlord or managing agent should ideally conduct an HMO inspection – also known as a mid-term inspection – two to three times per year to optimise the flow of maintenance. When applying for an HMO license, Council may request an annually updated gas certificate, the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms and safety certificates for all electrical appliances. As per gov.co.uk, Council must also carry out a Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) risk assessment on your HMO within five years of receiving the license application. Should any risks be found, Council may compel the landlord to rectify them. As the landlord, it’s your responsibility to report planned changes to the HMO, any changes made by tenants or if tenants’ circumstances change, for instance; having a baby or a new partner moving in to Council so that they can inspect the HMO to ensure it meets fire and amenity standards and that there are no new hazards under the HHSRS ( https://www.gov.uk/house-in-multiple-occupation-licence ). According to Orion Environmental Health & Safety ( http://www.orionsafety.co.uk/health-safety-consultants/housing/housing-health-and-safety-rating-system-hhsrs-assessments ), the key principle of the HHSRS is that the home needs to be safe for occupants and visitors. As such, it identifies a total of 29 risks to health and safety and provides a system for eliminating or at least minimising those risks. Some of the most common housing and health and safety risks include: Damp where there is excess cold or heat Pollutants such as asbestos, CO and lead Inadequate space, security, lighting and excessive noise Poor hygiene, sanitation and water supply Accidents such as falling, electric shocks, fires, burns and scalds Collisions, explosions, structural collapse Inadequate heating Mid-Term Inspections (HMO inspections) Mid-term inspections are not mandatory, but they’re indispensable when it comes to maintaining the value of your property investment and having peace of mind that tenants are looking after your property and no illegal activities such as cannabis farming are taking place there. Performing regular mid-term inspections not only enables you to take care of repairs early, before issues spiral out of control,  but conducting them at the right time for you and your tenant also contributes to relationship building. Clear communication and a good rapport with your tenant smooth the way for a good relationship that makes it easier to do inspections and repairs and increase the likelihood of long-term, reliable tenants, says PMS Letting & Sales ( https://pmsea.co.uk/property-inspection/ ). What to look for during a mid-term inspection: Knowing what to look for during inspections is just as important as showing up for the inspections. PMS Letting & Sales ( https://pmsea.co.uk/property-inspection/ ) identifies six key aspects to pay attention to during the mid-term inspection, including: Condensation and mould. Mould infestations can be dangerous and it loves “setting up house” around windows, on ceilings, inside wardrobes and in corners of rooms – especially on outside walls! Mould also has a special affinity for bathrooms and kitchens, especially where there’s hidden pipework. Leaks are a major cause of mould and pose serious risks to the health of your tenants and condition of your property. Check overflow pipes and outside drains for blockages that could cause overflows. Fixtures and fittings. Check that these are in good condition and working order. Fair wear and tear. There’s a fine line between fair wear and tear and genuine damage caused by a tenant and you can only hold a tenant liable for the latter. The loft. Check for rodents, leaks and holes. The loft is also a popular place for certain tenants to farm cannabis. This applies if you have a clause in your tenancy agreement that states that the tenant is responsible for maintaining the garden so that it is neat and not overgrown. The importance of independent, reliable inspections cannot be over stated, especially when it comes to compliance, protecting your property investment and gaining peace of mind. Why Vibrant? Vibrant Energy Matters boast an impeccable track record of supplying PARs for various leading asset management firms in the UK, such as the Aventria Group, AMG and Savills. We also offer the convenience of bundled rates for additional certificates that may be required for a successful HMO application. Operating in every post code in the UK, we are able to carry out instructions nationwide, giving you one point of service for all your inspection needs. Contact us for more information and book your VESA today.

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world where time is money, delayed gratification has been relegated to the history books, making way for convenience. Convenience – the state of being able to proceed with something without difficulty (Google, definitions by Oxford languages) – is an invaluable cog in the fast-spinning wheel of modern day living. This means dealing with a highly professional one-stop service where appointment availability is guaranteed and quick turn-around times are the norm, which frees up more time for the things that really matter to you, such as spending time with family and looking after your and your family’s health through living a balanced lifestyle. A full range of property services, conveniently under one umbrella. We are here to help you with energy efficiency, gas safety, electrical testing, property services, risk assessments and inspections, wherever you are in the UK. Need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)? Whether selling, letting or constructing a property, having a valid EPC that measures the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A to G is a legal requirement. In most cases in the UK, compliance with the latest MEES regulations would require some upgrades to the residential property to bring it up to the desired band. EPC Plus offers a total package of services including obtaining and EPC, guidance on upgrades that need to be done, project management and delivering improvements on a property. Further smoothing the path to compliance, upgrade services are supplied by a fully vetted supply chain that operates across the UK. “Having taken oven a new business, the last few months have been crazy! Vibrant have completely changed all that! With a combination of multiple core services and a very user friendly portal, what could take hours now gets done in minutes”  – Gulshan Mangat – Director: Northwood Cambridge Prioritise, group and save on property services. Our range of property services include the full spectrum of inventory, check-in and check-out, floor plans, mid-term inspections and viewings. Legionella Risk Assessment’s (LRA) is a big part of what we do. People are vulnerable to contracting Legionnaires from Legionella bacteria, commonly found in places such as shower taps, hot tubs that aren’t dried after use and decorative fountains and water features. Early detection and rectification are key to your customers’ health and well-being and saves the time it would take to deal with a far bigger Legionella problem further down the line. ‘We have been working with Vibrant for several years to help us with services such as Energy Performance Certificates (EPC), inventory reports, video tours and floorplans. The team at Vibrant is quick to respond to emails with job requests, which is vital as we deal with so many properties. We have close to 2,000 properties all over the UK so a key benefit for us initially was that Vibrant works throughout the UK and offers a quick turnaround for jobs. ” Gill Catley – Head of Regional Representatives: My future Living CO and Electrical compliance When it comes to gas safety, we install Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms to detect the presence of CO and prevent CO poisoning in the home. For your clients’ gas and boiler safety peace of mind, and to comply with legal requirements for letting a property, we arrange for a qualified gas safety engineer to issue a Gas CP12 gas safety certificate. Included is a thorough inspection of the boiler system including a visual inspection, isolating the boiler system electronically, checking fuse ratings and cleaning, upon which a benchmark report is issued. Complying with legislation, an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) be conducted once every five years for privately rented properties or whenever there’s a change of occupancy. As the largest property services provider in the UK, we complete thousands of instructions every year. For more information, email  us and book your VESA today .

As a responsible landlord or real estate agent, ensuring the safety of your properties and tenants is a top priority. But the world of fire safety can be complex and overwhelming, with fire safety checks, risk assessments, boiler checks, and carbon monoxide alarms to consider. The stakes are high, and the consequences of neglecting fire safety can be catastrophic. Just imagine the devastating impact of a fire incident in one of your properties. Lives could be at risk, valuable assets could be lost, and your reputation could be tarnished forever. Staying informed and prepared is no longer an option—it’s an absolute necessity. Which is why we’ve created Vibrant’s Essential Fire Safety Manual for Landlords and Real Estate Agents. In our guide, we address the key challenges and provide you with actionable solutions. We understand that your time is valuable, so we’ve distilled the most critical information into this single resource. Whether you’re a seasoned property owner or just starting out, we’ll equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to create a safe and secure environment for your tenants. From conducting thorough risk assessments, to ensuring regular boiler checks and the installation of carbon monoxide alarms, we leave no stone unturned. Fire Safety & Landlord Responsibilities Top Causes of Fire in Residential Properties – The Statistics It’s shocking to hear, but fire and rescue services attended 27,202 “dwelling fires” in 2022 alone , 73% of which were in houses, bungalows and converted flats, and 27% in purpose-built flats and maisonettes. Devastatingly, 216 people passed of fire-related fatalities in dwelling fires, with the most common causes of house fires in the UK being: Cooking appliances (48.3%) Other electrical devices (12.8%) Electrical distribution faults (11.9%) Materials used by smokers (7%) So, how can you help to prevent fires in your rental properties? The Importance of Fire Safety for Landlords and Real Estate Agents – Your Responsibilities When it comes to fire safety, as a landlord you carry significant legal responsibilities. Understanding and fulfilling these responsibilities is not only crucial for the wellbeing of your tenants, but also to protect yourself from potentially severe legal consequences. This handy summary from the Government’s private renting page outlines the bare minimum safety precautions you should follow to protect your property and tenants: Gas Safety Make sure any gas equipment you supply is safely installed and maintained by a  Gas Safe registered  engineer. Have a registered engineer do an annual gas safety check on each appliance and flue. Give tenants a copy of the gas safety check record before they move in, or within 28 days of the check. Electrical Safety Ensure all sockets and light fittings are safe. Ensure all of the appliances you’ve supplied are safe (ovens, kettles, etc). Fire Safety Follow safety regulations at all times. Provide a smoke alarm on each storey and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a solid fuel burning appliance (for example a coal fire or wood burning stove). Provide and ensure access to escape routes at all times. Ensure any supplied furniture and furnishings are fire safe. Provide fire alarms and extinguishers if the property is a large  house in multiple occupation (HMO) . But we’re not about bare minimum at Vibrant. So let’s dig a little deeper: Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms Statistics reveal that the leading cause of fatalities in fire incidents during 2018-19 was the inhalation of gas or smoke . In England alone, during 2020/2021 there was a 28% failure rate of smoke alarms (failed to operate or were not present), and this rate rises to 39% in Scotland and even further to half of all fires (50%) in Wales. And when it comes to carbon monoxide, around 200 people each year in England and Wales are seriously injured, with a similar number treated each year from accidental poisoning. So it’s no surprise that landlords must now have at least one operational smoke alarm installed on each floor of their rental properties, plus a carbon monoxide alarm if there is a solid fuel burning appliance present in any room (like a boiler, cooker, open fireplace or decorative stove). These alarms must be in proper working order at the start of each new tenancy, and you should actively encourage tenants to conduct monthly alarm checks. TOP TIP: Make testing of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms part of your routine property inspections. While meeting the legal requirements is essential, the London Fire Brigade goes the extra mile by strongly recommending the inclusion of an additional heat detector in the kitchen, and smoke alarms in the lounge and hallway of individual flats and houses. Access to Escape Routes If there is a fire, can your tenants get out safely? It’s your responsibility to provide tenants with a secure and reliable means of escape – either external, such as a stairway fixed to the sides of the building, or internal. They should be easily accessible from every floor and room within the property, and tenants should be made aware of the necessary steps to take during an emergency. Emergency lighting should be installed along the escape route, and the floors and walls surrounding the escape routes should be constructed using fire-resistant materials. When it comes to houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), the regulations become tighter as they tend to be larger and potentially pose greater challenges for tenants to escape from. We advise having a thorough assessment conducted by an experienced fire risk assessor for peace of mind that all necessary precautions are in place. Furniture and Furnishings If you provide furniture in your rented property, it’s probably about time you checked it meets fire safety standards. Furniture and furnishings should be made from fire-resistant materials – this information will be on the manufacturer’s label. Mattresses, bed bases, pillows, cushions and bed covers aren’t included, and you’re not responsible for tenant-owned furniture and appliances – anything the tenant brings inside the property is their own responsibility. Fire Extinguishers While fire extinguishers are only mandatory in houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), we’d always recommend you consider providing them in all property types. In HMOs, it is advised to have at least one fire extinguisher per floor, and each kitchen should be equipped with a fire blanket to prevent small fires from escalating. Like smoke alarms, fire extinguishers should be checked at the start of each new tenancy and undergo periodic inspections to ensure they are in proper working condition and ready for use when needed. It is a good idea to educate tenants on the proper usage of fire extinguishers and blankets, as using the wrong type of extinguisher can potentially worsen the situation. Fire Risk Assessments Periodic fire risk assessments are not only a legal requirement for many rental properties but also a recommended best practice across the board. These reports determine what needs to be done in a rental property to reduce the fire risk, and look as factors such as: location of smoke detectors, fire blankets and extinguishers escape routes out of the building fire resistance of doors potential fire hazards (such as flammable furniture and combustible storage) As time goes by, the condition of appliances and electrical systems may change, introducing new risks or exacerbating existing ones. Although the law doesn’t define how often your fire risk assessment should be reviewed (they just state “regularly”), we recommend a yearly check to ensure that it remains accurate and up to date How to Find a Competent Fire Risk Assessor While there is no mandated approach to conducting fire risk assessments, it is worth highlighting that many fire and rescue services offer complimentary home visits as part of their ‘Safe and Well’ initiative. You can also carry out a fire risk assessment yourself (unlike the Gas Safety Check), and you can find checklists online to ensure you cover all bases. However, if you are unsure, or would rather a professional carry out the job on your behalf, get in touch with our team to book an assessment. What does a fire risk assessment include? The risk assessment process involves an inspection of the premises to identify potential fire hazards, to ensure adequate measures to stop fires starting, and that adequate fire protection measures are in place to protect everyone in the building. The five-step process is considered: Fire Hazards A fire hazard is anything that can start a fire, such as ignition sources or combustible materials. Electrical equipment Smoking Cooking Arson Heating Housekeeping Contractors People at Risk Identify anyone who may be at greater risk should a fire break out. Number of people Young Elderly Lone Workers Evaluate and Act How easy would it be to escape from the property should a fire break out? Number of Floors Staircases Location of Exits Fire Alarms Fire Exit Signs Emergency Lighting Fire Extinguishers Record, Plan and Train Does everyone know what to do in the event of a fire? Is there a clear plan? Review Your fire risk assessment needs regular review and updating if there are any significant changes. you had a fire or near miss? Are there any chemicals or dangerous substances being stored? Fire safety doors Fire doors are highly effective in containing fires once they erupt, acting as barriers that delay the spread of both fire and hazardous smoke. By doing so, they minimize the extent of damage caused and provide tenants with valuable additional time to evacuate safely. Currently only HMOs are legally required to have fire doors, but considering kitchen fires are the top cause of residential fires it makes sense to consider installing fire doors in the kitchens of all rental properties as an extra precautionary measure. Electrical Safety Inspections The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 (what a mouthful!) require landlords to have the electrical installations in their properties inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every 5 years. A copy of the report must be provided to tenants, and to the local authority if requested. This means that all landlords now must do what good landlords already do: make sure the electrical installations in their rented properties are safe. The Regulations came into force on 1 June 2020 and form part of the Department’s aims to improve safety in all residential premises, particularly in the private rented sector. What is a “Qualified and Competent Person” and How Do I Find One? Although there are no compulsory schemes for qualified and competent inspectors and testers to join, the Government suggest seeking guidance from the Electrical Safety Roundtable and Registered Competent Person – Electrical websites. The most important thing is to require the inspector you choose to sign a checklist which certifies their competence, experience, insurance, and qualifications. As the leading supplier of residential property services, we complete thousands of inspections each year up and down the UK, providing Electrical Installation Condition Reports within 2 days of instruction. What will be inspected and tested? The regulations don’t require electrical appliances to be tested – only fixed electrical installations like the wiring, socket outlets, light fittings and fuse box. If you have any permanently connected equipment, such as electric showers or extractors, these will also need to be checked. During the inspection, the tester will determine if: any electrical installations are overloaded there are any potential electric shock risks and fire hazards there is any defective electrical work there is a lack of earthing or bonding (which could cause electric shocks) Although portable appliance testing (PAT) isn’t compulsory, it is recommended if electrical appliances of any kind are provided in the rental property. TOP TIP: Warn tenants about the hazards of overloading sockets with extension leads!  Gas Safety Checks 1998 marked the implementation of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations , a crucial framework outlining the legal obligations for landlords and agents concerning gas safety. These comprehensive regulations encompass each facet of gas installations and appliances within rented properties, with the overarching mission to proactively prevent gas-related incidents, ranging from leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning to catastrophic explosions. Within these regulations, landlords and agents bear the responsibility to ensure the safety of all gas fittings, flues, and appliances provided in their rental properties. This includes meticulous attention to proper installation procedures, regular maintenance routines, and the essential requirement of conducting annual safety checks. Such checks must be conducted exclusively by Gas Safe registered engineers, who possess the expertise and qualifications to assess and certify the safety of gas installations. What is a Gas Safety Certificate? And why does it have so many names? A gas safety certificate (with various names over the years, such as CP12 certificate, CORGI certificate, landlord gas safety record…) is proof that you have achieved the legal requirement to test the safety of the gas appliances at your property. All of the names mean the same thing (don’t panic, you don’t need multiple!) – they simply reflect whoever the governing body were at the time. You must give your tenants a copy of the gas safety check record before they move in (or within 28 days of the check). What does a Gas Safe check include? A Gas Safety check usually takes around half an hour (depending on the size of the property and number of appliances). TOP TIP: if your property has a gas meter key, make sure there is enough credit to keep any gas appliances working during the checks! Your Gas Safe registered engineer will check: that equipment is operating at the correct pressure the appliances are combusting gas normally that there is sufficient air supply to the equipment that flues and exhausts are clearing fumes safely and without leaks that all appliances are operating as they are designed to and your certificate will include: the name, ID number and signature of the Gas Safe registered engineer the ate of the inspection your name and address (as the registered landlord or letting agent) the address of the property the location and details about each and every piece of equipment tested all issues and any action needed to remedy them confirmation from the engineer that the check was completed properly, in compliance with legislation the date of the next scheduled gas safety check (typically one year from the date of issue) How much does a Gas Safety check cost? Unfortunately, there isn’t a set price for safety checks, so we’d suggest seeking a few quotes to see how they vary in your area. They usually cost anywhere between £60 to £150, which varies depending on the size on your property, number of gas appliances and how long the check will take to complete. What happens if a problem is detected? During the inspection, if any issues or potential hazards are identified, the engineer will provide you with expert advice on the necessary steps to rectify them and bring your property up to a safe standard. It’s then your duty to ensure that the recommended measures and fixes are implemented promptly. Until the repairs are carried out, you must prevent anyone from using the affected appliances to avoid any potential risks. We highly recommend maintaining a meticulous paper trail throughout the process. Keep a comprehensive record of all gas safety checks conducted, along with any associated work or repairs performed, as this serves as evidence of your compliance with legal requirements. To ensure you have all your bases covered, consider retaining these records for a minimum of two years. You can find out about our range of gas safety inspections, including Gas Boiler Safety Certificates and Carbon Monoxide Alarms, on our Gas Safety page . The Importance of Fire Safety for Landlords and Real Estate Agents – Possible Legal Consequences In the aftermath of the devastating Grenfell tragedy in 2017, the significance of adhering to fire safety regulations has reached new heights in the UK. The consequences for non-compliance have become more prevalent, and the penalties can be alarmingly steep. In fact, post-Grenfell, the average fine has skyrocketed to £27,519 , a staggering 35% higher than the average between 2014 and 2019. When it comes to fire safety, authorities generally adopt a proactive approach. Fire and rescue services usually offer notice and advice to address any shortcomings in fire safety measures before resorting to fines. Their goal is to ensure that corrective actions are taken to prevent potential hazards and keep occupants safe. However, if the required remedies are not promptly implemented, fines may be imposed. For minor infractions, fines can amount to as much as £5,000 . But for more severe violations, the financial penalties have no upper limit. The gravity of the offense can also lead to additional consequences, including a potential prison sentence of up to two years . These stringent measures reflect the growing emphasis on fire safety and the commitment to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. Conclusion Whether you decide to take on the responsibility yourself, or delegate it to someone else, it’s crucial to have concrete evidence that you’ve taken all reasonable measures to safeguard your property and tenants from fire and smoke damage. As a landlord, it’s not just about meeting the bare minimum legal obligations. You want to have the peace of mind that in the event of a fire, your tenants will be promptly alerted, giving them time to escape to safety. To stay informed and up to date, it’s always wise to keep a finger on the pulse of the latest rules and regulations. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local authority for assistance and advice, as they can provide valuable guidance, helping you ensure that you’re fully compliant with the most current fire safety standards. At Vibrant, it’s our job to make sure your property is fully compliant – get in touch to find out how we can help . Don’t let the risk of fire compromise your properties or the safety of those who call them home.

Alarming statistics emanating from research done by Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB) revealed nearly half of UK landlords are under the misguided impression that the upcoming Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) legislation is merely a yardstick. Currently the minimum energy efficiency rating to lawfully let a private residential property is E Band. Responses collated from 501 participants revealed that while 86 per cent of landlords knew the EPC rating of their property portfolios, only 35 per cent were aware that the new EPC legislation would become law and a further 18 per cent were completely oblivious to the imminent changes. In our recent LinkedIn poll, we asked followers if they knew the minimum efficiency rating currently needed to let out a private residential property .  A staggering 21% voted D, 3% F and only 76% voted E, the correct regulated Band. Deputy CEO of MAB, Ben Thompson highlighted the hurdles that landlords face in meeting the incoming EPC legislation deadline. These include a short timeframe, higher interest rates, escalating cost of living pressures and a lack of knowledge of the changes they are required to make to their properties. Landlords who are in the know were found to be most concerned about finding a reputable contractor, the cost of retrofitting energy efficient upgrades, inconveniencing tenants and the time it would take to make the required changes. Get EPC compliant now Regardless of when the EPC legislation becomes law, whether government decides to delay the deadline to accommodate property owners, properties with an EPC rating below C Band will most certainly have to be upgraded sooner or later, and the longer retrofitting is delayed, the greater the cost will be. “While delaying the cut-off date before the law comes into place is clearly a sensible move, unless there is clear help unveiled to support with the cost of retrofitting, the landlords could find themselves up against the deadline again in a few years’ time,” Thompson cautioned. Delaying also leaves tenants burdened with higher energy bills for longer, making your property less sought after. How can Vibrant give you, the landlord, peace of mind? With a stellar industry track record, assessors near every UK post code and a network of trusted supply chain that we’ve been working with for many years, Vibrant Energy Matters is your best partner in achieving compliance with EPC legislation. Partnering with us means having an expert at your side who not only cares about you, the landlord, but also your tenants. Contact us today if you have any questions or to enquire about our Vibrant Energy Saving Audit.

In our previous article ( Property Inspections safeguard landlords and mortgage lenders against financial risk ) we explained why property inspections are a landlord’s foremost means of maintaining the value of the property and ensuring compliance and peace of mind. Diving deeper we look at the added duties set to protect tenants of HMOs (House in Multiple Occupations) as well as tenants’ responsibilities to the landlord. A property is considered an HMO if it is rented by three or more people who are from different households and who share facilities such as the kitchen and bathroom. HMOs or ‘house shares’ are common in the UK, especially in cities with higher concentrations of students or young professionals who are looking for more affordable rental options. On the flipside, HMOs are attractive to landlords due to their higher income potential, but landlords of HMOs have a unique and legally binding set responsibilities and rights that come with managing multiple tenants. HMO Landlord Responsibilities Display a clearly visible notice detailing the name, address and contact number of the landlord or property manager. Keep comprehensive records of all inspections and work done to the property. Acquire the right HMO specific landlord insurance policy. Remember that most insurers don’t cover subletting by tenants – check with your insurer and keep an eye on your tenants. Safety Requirements Keep the property well maintained and perform professional health and safety inspections in line with safety rating systems. Do not allow overcrowding. Provide smoke alarms and heat detectors in kitchens and keep fire escapes clear of obstacles. Perform fire risk assessments in accordance with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005  to avoid criminal charges in the event of injury or death of tenants from fire. Have regular legionella risk assessments done by professionals. Have electrical equipment inspected at least once every five years. If the council requests and gas or electrical safety record, the landlord must provide it within a week. Provide and maintain a clean water supply and proper drainage system that also protects pipes from frost. General Requirements If bedsits (a single room per occupant where for instance the bathroom is shared) are rented, the landlord must comply with the Heat Network Regulations. Provide at least the minimum number of bathrooms and kitchens according to local requirements (available at the local council’s Environment and Health Department). Make sure bedroom sizes meet minimum requirements as specified by the council in your area, for example 6.51 square metres for a single person aged 10 years or older; 10.22 square metres for two persons aged 10 years or older; 4.64 square metres for a 10-year-old child. Maintain safety and cleanliness of all common areas. Keep the interior and exterior of the property in good order. Provide enough rubbish bins and regular refuse disposal. Provide furnishings, fixtures and fittings. Tenant Responsibilities to the Landlord Smooth operation of and HMO is a two-way street and while the landlord has a legal responsibility to tenants to perform certain duties, tenants also must do their part. The tenant must allow the landlord reasonable information and access to perform his duties such as maintenance and safety inspections. Tenants must also take care to look after and not damage items that are the landlord’s duty to provide. It is also the tenant’s responsibility to abide by refuse and fire-safety guidelines implemented by the landlord. Challenges to Consider when deciding to establish an HMO Although potentially more profitable, an HMO is more difficult to finance through a lender. Then there is the challenge of finding the right property to convert to into an HMO and the higher set-up and maintenance costs. Managing and collecting rent from multiple tenants can also be more challenging and there is always the potential of higher tenant turnover. Why Vibrant? As the UK’s leading property services company and with a stellar track record in every aspect of the property services market, Vibrant is perfectly positioned to be your guide every step of the way on your journey to establishing and running a successful HMO. Operating in every post code in the UK, we can carry out instructions nationwide, giving you one point of service for all your inspection needs.  Contact us via email for more information and book your VESA.

Do you own a domestic private rented property with an energy efficiency rating of F or G? Did you know that it is unlawful to let such a property unless an exemption has been registered with the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Exemption Register? This is according to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) Regulations that determine the minimum energy efficiency level for domestic private rented properties to be let. Currently the minimum energy efficiency rating is E Band, but this will increase to C Band by 2026. The MEES Regulations apply to all domestic private rented properties that are let on specific types of tenancy agreements as well as those legally required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). An EPC is a legally valid document which lets you know how energy efficient a property is (displayed on a scale from A to G) in relation to its running costs. Enforced by local authorities, failing to comply with MEES Regulations may lead to the issuing of a compliance notice, followed by a hefty financial penalty up to 18 months after the breach has taken place. The Seven Private Sector Rental (PRS) Exemptions There are seven PRS Exemptions to MEES Regulations that landlords of domestic private rented properties may apply for if the property in question meets the requirements for any of the exemptions and the landlord is able to provide supporting documentation. Each exemption is valid for five years, unless otherwise stated. To register an exemption, the landlord must provide: The address of the property The type of exemption being registered A copy of a valid EPC for the property All supporting documents that prove the property meets the requirements Vibrant Energy Matters’ Technical Resolution Manager, Carol McKeown sheds some light on the list of exemptions. 1. High-Cost Exemption If the cost of installing even the cheapest recommended measure to improve the property’s energy rating to E Band exceeds the government determined £3,500 spending cap, a landlord can register a high-cost exemption. “You will require three quotes from qualified installers and written confirmation stating that the install would exceed the cost of £3,500 would be required in order to apply for this exemption.” says McKeown. “When the five year exemption expires, as a landlord you would have to try again to improve the property’s EPC rating to E. If it’s still not viable, then you would have to register another exemption.” 2. Third Party Exemption McKeown says a landlord would be able to apply for this exemption if, for example: ​The freeholder refuses access to install the recommended improvements The tenant refuses entry to install improvements The Planning Department refuses to allow the improvements Consent is given by a third party but with unreasonable conditions. This exemption lasts for five years, or until the tenancy of the tenant that refuses entry to install improvements comes to an end or is assigned to a new tenant. The landlord will have to supply documentation or copies of correspondence that demonstrate refusal or that permission was granted, but subject to conditions that are unreasonable to comply with. 3. Property Devaluation Exemption “ A Landlord would be able to apply for this exemption if evidence can be provided that making the energy efficiency improvements would devalue the property by more than 5% if they were installed. For example installing wall or floor insulation in a property with known issues of damp,” she said. Important to note, as per the UK government’s guidelines for the regulations and exemptions ( www.gov.uk ), the evidence report for this would need to be obtained from an independent surveyor that is on the the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) of register of valuers. 4. 7 Year Payback Exemption The seven year payback exemption applies when an independent energy assessor finds that the savings on energy cost over seven years will be less than the amount spent on an upgrade, or that all cost-effective energy efficiency improvements have been made. McKeown said the typical costs to install internal or external wall insulation is between £4,000 – £14,000, while the typical yearly saving is estimated £4,081 (£583 x 7 years). “Therefore, if the cheapest quote to install internal wall insulation in this property was £4,000, then the landlord would not qualify for the exemption. However, if the cheapest quote was £10,000, then the landlord would qualify for the exemption,” she said. 5. All Improvements Made Exemption If a landlord has made all the recommended energy efficiency improvements and the property still has a rating of F or G, then an all improvements made exemption can be registered with the PRS Exemption Register . Once again, the landlord would have to provide supporting documents to show that the required improvements have been made. 6. New Landlord Exemption McKeown comments that the keyword here is “temporary”. The temporary six month exemption exists to afford a new landlord an opportunity to assess the property’s energy efficiency by means of an EPC and then register the relevant exemption if necessary. The exemption registered after expiration of the new landlord exemption will last for five years unless otherwise stated. 7. Wall Insulation Exemption If the only improvements that can be recommended for a property are cavity wall insulation, external wall insulation, or internal wall insulation and an expert has advised the landlord in writing that any of these improvements would negatively affect the fabric or structure of the building, a wall insulation exemption can be registered. McKeown said the landlord would need to supply a copy of this written report stating that the recommended wall insulation would damage the property and the property therefore cannot be improved to an EPC E Band. The landlord can cancel the exemption if he or she improves the property to E Band or stops letting it. Submitting the necessary documents for you selected PRS Exemption Vibrant can provide landlords with guidance on the RPS Exemption Registration, acquiring an EPC Certificate for a property as well as the three quotes required to meet the desired property rating. With the admin taken care of, saving time and money, its one step closer to letting out a property. Contact us for more information and book your VESA.

Improving energy efficiency of properties can benefit landlords in many ways, including legal compliance, cost savings, increased demand, environmental stability and tenant satisfaction. Here’s why: Legal requirements It has been proposed that Landlords should be legally required to ensure that their properties meet certain energy efficiency standards. Part of the proposal is that from April 2026, it will be illegal for landlords to rent out a property with and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of less than Band C, unless an exemption applies. Cost savings Improving the energy efficiency of a property can lead to significant cost savings for both the landlord and the tenant. This is because energy-efficient properties require less energy to heat and power them, resulting in lower energy bills. Increased demand Properties with higher energy efficiency ratings are likely to be more attractive to tenants, as they offer lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment. This can help to increase the demand for the property and reduce void periods. Environmental benefits Improving the energy efficiency of a property can help to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to the fight against climate change. Landlords have a responsibility to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future. Better living conditions A property that is well-insulated and has efficient heating and lighting systems can provide a more comfortable loving environment for tenants. This can lead to better tenant satisfaction and retention, reducing turnover and associated costs. What is MEES? MEES, or Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards is a set of government instituted guidelines for landlords of domestic private rented properties to bring their properties’ EPC Band in line with the minimum legal requirement. The new changes to the MEES regulations may seem overwhelming at first, but there’s no reason to be alarmed because landlords can apply for exemptions if they have the correct documentation in place. These exemptions include: High Cost Exemption Devaluation Exemption 7 Year Payback Exemption Consent Exemption All Improvements Made Exemption New Landlord Exemption Wall Insulation Exemption Landlord exemption criteria Each of these exemptions carries their own set of criteria that a property must meet to qualify, and all exemptions last for five years, except when stated less. To apply for an exemption, the property is legally obligated to have a valid EPC and the landlord must register the exemption with the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Exemption Register before it can be depended on. What is an EPC? An EPC F or G rated property that is not covered by the MEES Regulations, will not require an exemption and a property that has been upgraded to a minimum of EPC E, will not need to be registered on the Exemptions Register. However, if an exempted property is sold or otherwise transferred, the exemption dissolves and the new owner would need to upgrade the property’s energy efficiency or register a new exemption, should they wish to let the property. Why not let us help you with an updated EPC? The Vibrant approach to EPCs is focused on three key elements which will assist landlords in their submission of compliance for their specified exemption. Providing accurate data and recommendations. Providing as many funding options as possible. Having a first-class, reliable supply chain to get the job done. Book your VESA.

The UK government’s zero-carbon housing policy came about in the early 2000s and plays a central role in the UK achieving carbon net zero by 2050. The shift towards net zero or carbon neutrality (a planet that extracts the same amount of carbon dioxide as it releases into the atmosphere or eliminates it from society completely,) emerged at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) in 2015 when world leaders signed the historic Paris Agreement, a long-term an international treaty to fight climate change. Homes are the third largest source of carbon emissions in the UK, contributing 22% of total emissions. As one of the signatories of the Paris Agreement, the UK is legally obligated to follow through on the environmental commitment it made. But the Paris Agreement wasn’t the genesis of the UK’s action on climate change; the UK government’s first steps towards carbon neutrality date as far back as 2002. Energy Efficiency Regulation Timelines Here is a brief timeline of government regulatory changes in the housing sector in terms of carbon emissions from 2022 (Inside Housing, 24 April 2020, Green building in the UK: a timeline ) and current government projections up to 2035: 2022 EPC Audit improvements for improved CPD requirements and published EPC portfolio data by lenders. 2023  Possible mandatory disclosure requirement for all lenders to report on EPC bands across their portfolio. 2026   Private rented accommodation to be a minimum Band C by 2026 for new lets (up from E and exemption threshold increased from £3,000 to £10,000). 2028  Private rented accommodation to be a minimum Band C by 2028 for all lets (up from E and exemption thresholds increased from £3,000 to £,10,000). 2030 All lenders’ portfolios to be an average Band C by 2030. 2035 All owner occupied as well as all social housing to be a minimum Band C by 2035. Why the drive for energy efficiency regulatory changes? In addition to government’s commitment to achieving net zero by 2050, economic indicators are also driving regulatory changes. With more than 52% of homes in England built before 1965, and close on 20% pre-dating 1919, the UK has some of the oldest, least energy efficient housing stock in Europe (The Guardian, 11 September 2022, UK must insulate homes or face a worse energy crisis in 2023, say experts) . Our houses are responsible for one third of our total gas use, partly because these old houses leak a lot of heat – up to three times as much as Germany, which increases the demand for gas to heat homes. Experts have warned late last year that the UK’s energy crisis will deepen in a year’s time if we don’t upgrade leaky homes immediately and significantly reduce the demand for gas (The Guardian, 11 September 2022, UK must insulate homes or face a worse energy crisis in 2023, say experts). The article further states that because cutting heat loss is more effective in the long run than subsidising bills, there is no way around it; the UK must insulate its homes. Vibrant’s approach to drive energy efficiency in the UK The Vibrant approach is focused on three key elements which are all required to execute the green homes agenda: Providing accurate data and recommendations. Providing as many funding options as possible. Having a first-class, reliable supply chain to get the job done. The EPC Plus Home Energy Report provides a full one-stop service from advice to execution, eliminating the headache of dealing with and keeping an eye on multiple contractors. As an independent company, staffed by experts, your customers, deal with real people (not robots) who will guide and assist you through your journey towards making the right decisions . Why Vibrant? We have access to a full and fully vetted UK wide supply chain and having delivered more than two million EPCs and counting, we have been tried and are trusted far and wide. We know that affordability matters, so we make it a priority to keep our price point in line with standard EPC prices: Contact us

The cumulative decline in UK house prices is urging estate agents to think outside the box when looking to sell homes within their current property portfolio. A seemingly endless plethora of economic obstacles, higher interest rates, the possibility of job cuts and a spike in the cost of living, are currently making it more difficult to sell residential properties, putting pressure on agents to drop their asking prices. According to The Guardian ( The Guardian, 30 December 2022, UK house prices fall for fourth month in a row, longest run since 2018 ), UK property prices have been falling at the fastest rate in 14 years and on 1 February 2023 Nationwide Building Society announced that prices had at the end of January fallen for the fifth consecutive month, making this the longest negative run since the global financial crisis in 2008. No surprise in rising mortgage rates This is not a total surprise as in December 2022, Nationwide Building Society’s chief economist, Robert Gardner, predicted a 5% drop in prices in 2023, while Halifax painted a more gloomy picture with an 8% forecast, a single percentage point less than the Office for Budget Responsibility’s prediction of 9% ( Reuters, 20 December 2022, UK’s Nationwide forecasts 5% house price fall for 2023 ) With sluggish growth affecting all regions in the UK, the annual growth rate, according to The Guardian ( The Guardian, 1 February 2023, UK house prices fall for fifth month in a row ), is currently at 1.1%, down from 2.8 % in December 2022. This is the lowest it’s been since June 2020 when the UK housing market emerged from a hard lockdown in the initial stages of the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition, the mortgage approval rate is the lowest it’s been since the start of the pandemic; even lower than economists had expected. Paying off a property has become much more expensive. Forbes reported on 19 January 2023 ( Forbes, 19 January 2023, What’s the latest UK mortgage rates?) to curb inflation, the Bank of England raised interest rates on 15 December 2022 from 3.0% to 3.5%, marking the ninth rise since December 2021 when the Bank rate stood at just 0.1%. The downward trend in property prices is set to continue with Forbes expecting the market to slow down further and property prices to fall by another 2% in 2023. As a result, buyers are more reluctant to buy, opting to see how the market develops this year. How Vibrant can shield you and your customers from this downward trend Fortunately, there is a way to cushion the blow for your customers. Moving your customers property to a greener portfolio and maximising the energy efficiency of their buildings makes it financially attractive to your buyers as they would save on monthly energy bills. A few simple changes can make your customers property and your overall property portfolio more attractive and therefore easier to sell and at a better price. It all starts with our VESA. Having committed to a Net Zero carbon position by 2050, the government is encouraging everyone to be a C (or better) by 2035. Money Supermarket recently published an article explaining how a better energy efficiency rating would improve the value of a property ( Money Supermarket, 13 September 2022, How energy efficiency impacts property values) . They said increasing the EPC rating from a D to an A would increase the value of a property by as much as 14%, while simply improving from a D to a C would add an average of 10% to the value of a house. More buyers are moving towards “greener” energy efficient properties. Residential development head at Shakespeare Martineau said in Inside Housing ( I nside Housing, 11 August, 2022, Buyers want green homes. But the market and government need to catch up ) 77% of people in the housing market have indicated they are likely to consider a green home as their next property, mostly due to environmental concerns. Add to that the financial incentive of a more energy efficient house, and your residential property becomes highly sought after. To learn more, contact Vibrant

Don’t be alarmed; be ready: as of the 1 October, 2022 landlords are required to take responsibility for the installation of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms in specified areas let as living accommodation. This follows seven years of in-depth consultation to finalize amendments to the 2015 Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations to create safer homes for residents. A Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm is a device that detects the presence of CO to prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Annually causing about 20 deaths, 200 major injuries, which require hospitalization, and 4 000 minor injuries, measures had to be taken to snuff out the colourless, odourless and tasteless “silent killer” known as Carbon Monoxide poisoning in the home. Because CO is almost impossible to detect without a CO alarm, and symptoms are similar to that of flu, poisoning is often wrongly diagnosed as flu, and patients miss out on the appropriate treatment for this life-threatening condition. The new Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Regulations introduce three key safety measures to new and existing homes in the private and social rental markets, as well as owner occupied premises. Going forward, social landlords will be required to ensure that at least one smoke alarm is installed on each storey of the premises on which there is a room used wholly or partially as living accommodation. Private and social landlords are also required to install a carbon monoxide alarm in any room used as living accommodation, where a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers) is used. Furthermore, amendments to the statutory guidance, supporting Part J of the Building Regulations, require that carbon monoxide alarms are fitted alongside the installation of fixed combustion appliances of any fuel type (excluding gas cookers). While these changes offer clear benefits to residents, how will it impact property owners, lenders, estate agents and social housing? As we said in the opening line of this article: don’t be alarmed; be ready. The additional impact on private and social landlords will be negligible. While the cost to house builders and owner occupiers would be about £208 million over ten years, the assessed benefits will add up to about £183 million over a 20-year period. These benefits are calculated by estimating the monitised health benefit through reduced fatalities and injuries. It is estimated that owner-occupiers will spend about £27 per additional alarm, including parts and installation. However, over time, the cost of alarms is expected to drop, while the average lifespan of these devices is expected to improve. While there will be a small increased impact on smaller landlords, they are not expected to be disproportionately affected. For more information on CO Alarms and possible solutions for your property portfolio, contact us.  Issued by Vibrant, 3 November 2022.

Following the launch of Vibrant’s first-of-its-kind EPC+ offering, Connells Group confirms that it is the first property services company to roll out the new offering to customers and clients across its entire sales and lettings network. * In line with Connells Group’s own environmental commitments, and in response to growing demand for homes to be more energy-saving, the EPC+ Report provides homeowners, sellers and landlords with better understanding of their property’s impact on the environment, how they can achieve better energy efficiency and, ultimately, how they can make ‘greener’ choices. Alongside its environmental benefits, the report provides customers with clear, achievable options to save on their bills and add value to their homes. The report from Vibrant is the first of its kind in the housing industry, detailing a property’s current and potential EPC rating, the CO2 produced by the property each year and the CO2 savings that could be achieved. It also drills down to finer details, including what improvements are recommended to achieve a higher rating, how much they will cost and how much bills could reduce as a result, as well as information on various sources of funding that may be available. Commenting on Vibrant’s new EPC+ product, Connells Group’s Chief Estate Agency Executive, David Plumtree, says: “We’re proud to be the first to blanket adopt Vibrant’s market-leading EPC+, which we believe offers great benefits to our customers and for which there is considerable demand. At a time when environmental issues and the cost of living are affecting so many, we are committed to prioritising the needs of our customers and our planet. By offering the EPC+ service through our national branch network, we are able to reach a larger proportion of the population than any other property business, and we’re confident that our customers will reap the long-term benefits of this new offering.” Dan Kittow, Managing Director at Vibrant – Your Property Partner, adds, “The increased attention on improving the performance of the UK housing stock means that in the coming years landlords and homeowners will be under greater pressure to make improvements that will bring down energy usage. Our EPC Plus Service will provide them with a complete overview of the current performance alongside clear and targeted recommendations, allowing proactive improvement and management of each property.” For further information, please contact the Vibrant Team on  hi@vem.co.uk. Issued by Connells Group, September 2022.

PropTech – Is the property industry finally getting its head around the digital innovation buzzword? After a year of development, Vibrant is launching Homex: A new PropTech app that enables landlords, lettings agents, property service managers, and Inventory Assessors to create paper-free property inventories quickly and in high definition. But what does the term PropTech actually mean? Between 5–7th September, Australia is hosting the ‘PropTech Summit 2018’, “Where technology and investment converge to transform the future of property”. It’s probably fair to say that most property businesses believe they understand PropTech, or ‘property technology’, and have adopted it with gusto. But is this really the case? Being PropTech savvy isn’t just about having a slick mobile-friendly website, delivering ‘value-led content’ across social channels, utilising Search Engine Marketing, or even placing your business completely online. The PropTech Summit explains that “a new generation of property-tech (PropTech) entrepreneurs have emerged offering innovative new ways to buy, sell, lease, finance and manage property”, and describes PropTech as “technology that is aimed at the real estate industry and attempts to change the way we buy, sell, finance and manage property.” Investment in PropTech companies is set to reach $20 billion by 2020, a claim apparently made by KPMG and Taronga Group’s investment arm, Real Tech Ventures. RICS defines PropTech as referring to “all aspects of innovation and how it impacts the built environment. This may include software, hardware, materials or manufacturing. PropTech is a general all-encompassing term, but is often used to specifically refer to the small start-ups that are using technology to address market problems. ” Familiar terms include ‘Cloud Computing’, which is attributed to data being hosted and stored across the internet on remote servers for the purpose of processing, sharing, and managing data. Many of us may use Microsoft or Apple cloud services to back-up our computer data. ’Platform as a Service’ (PaaS) digital solutions utilise cloud computing to allow users to access, manage and develop services via the internet. While, ‘Software as a Service’ (SaaS) is a cloud-based service hosted remotely that enables users and consumers to utilise benefit-led software solutions over the internet. The PropTech movement is about developing or adopting bespoke and innovative technological solutions that augment and automate business across the property sector. It’s about embracing all that the digital environment has to offer, thinking laterally, and being at the cutting edge of technological advancements. An innovative property company, for example, would be capitalising on VR (Virtual Reality) PropTech to augment their sales and lettings business. This movement is something that we understand and are embracing with a deep sense of enthusiasm, excitement, and commitment. What is the Homex PropTech? Developed by the UK’s leading property services company, Vibrant, Homex is a true evidence-based SaaS digital solution that allows you to capture the highest quality photographs and panoramic images for outstanding visibility. A zoom option allows you to review a property’s condition in detail, and an exclusive ‘Hotspot’ feature enables the user to catalogue and highlight damage and issues to help minimise landlord/tenant disputes. No more cumbersome 80-page plus paper-based inventories. No more stationery and printing costs. No more administration headaches and file storage. Just simple cloud computing, information sharing and data management. Homex is a PropTech that’s bringing inventories into the 21st century. For more information and to request a demo, email us at:  hello@homex.tech Or click to visit our  You Tube channel.