Do I need to be a member to ask a legal question?

Yes. Legal support is a members-only feature. You can log in or join free to access this feature.

How long does it take to receive a reply?

Most enquiries are responded to within 48 hours. Complex queries may take longer, but all updates will be visible in your member dashboard.

What kind of legal issues can I submit?

You can submit tenancy-related questions, including issues with deposits, repairs, eviction, or rental agreements. Our team offers guidance and may prepare documents to assist.

Who can submit a document?

Only registered TLA members can submit legal documents or evidence. Please ensure you are logged in before submitting.

What types of documents can I upload?

You may upload any tenancy-related documentation such as tenancy agreements, deposit records, maintenance logs, or evidence for legal support. PDF, Word, and image formats are supported.

Where can I view my submitted documents?

All submitted documents are accessible via your member dashboard. You'll also receive a confirmation after each upload.

What types of claims can I submit?

You can submit claims related to deposit disputes, disrepair, harassment, rent arrears, illegal eviction, or tenancy contract breaches.

Is there a cost to submit a claim?

Members can submit claims as part of their membership. Some advanced services may carry a small fee.

How long will it take to hear back?

Initial claim reviews are usually completed within 2–3 working days.

Where can I check my claim status?

All updates are posted in your Member Dashboard. Email alerts are also sent for important actions.

Who will respond to my enquiry?

Our legal support team, including experienced case assessors and housing law specialists, will review your enquiry and respond via your member dashboard.

Is my enquiry confidential?

Yes. All submissions are strictly confidential and handled in accordance with our data protection policy and ethical guidelines.

How long does it take to receive a response?

You will typically receive a reply within 48 hours. More complex enquiries may take slightly longer, and all updates will be posted to your dashboard.

Can I ask more than one question?

Absolutely. Members can submit multiple enquiries as long as each is related to a distinct tenancy or legal issue.

What if I need a legal document created?

If your situation requires a formal letter or court-ready document, our team will assess your case and draft it for you — this is included in Premium membership.

EPC & Energy Law Compliance for Rental Properties

Landlords in England and Wales must comply with strict energy efficiency regulations when renting out residential properties. This includes meeting minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements and adhering to government energy efficiency rules. This guide outlines your legal duties, potential penalties, and how to stay compliant.

📋 What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy efficient a property is on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). EPCs are legally required for most rented homes in the UK and must be available to tenants before the tenancy begins.

Valid for 10 years
Must be displayed on property listings
Applies to both new and existing tenancies

⚠️ Minimum EPC Rating Requirements

Since 1 April 2020, landlords must not let or continue to let properties with an EPC rating below E unless an exemption is registered.

Private rental properties must meet an E rating or higher
Exemptions must be logged on the PRS Exemptions Register
Properties with F or G ratings may not be legally let without upgrades or valid exemption

🏗️ Energy Efficiency Improvements

Landlords may need to carry out energy improvements to meet EPC compliance. These include:

Loft or cavity wall insulation
Double glazing
Upgraded boilers or heating controls
LED lighting

The cost cap is currently £3,500 (including VAT) for required improvements before an exemption can be claimed.

💸 Penalties for Non-Compliance

Local authorities can impose fines of up to:

£2,000 for letting a non-compliant property (first offence)
£4,000 for a repeat offence
£5,000 total maximum penalty per property

📂 TLA Support & Templates

🧭 Further Guidance

More information is available from:

EPC rules apply to all residential lettings in England and Wales. Commercial and non-domestic properties follow different rules under MEES regulations. For further advice, contact the TLA legal support team.

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