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 residential properties. This includes meeting minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements, carrying out necessary energy improvements, and adhering to government-enforced penalties for non-compliance. This guide explains your legal duties, how to maintain compliance, and the support available to you.

📋 What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assesses how energy efficient a property is, scoring from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). EPCs help tenants understand potential energy costs and environmental impact before renting.

Valid for 10 years from issue date
Must be provided to prospective tenants before tenancy begins
Displayed prominently in property listings to ensure transparency
Applies to both new and existing tenancies with no exceptions

⚠️ Minimum EPC Rating Requirements & Exemptions

Since 1 April 2020, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) legislation requires rental properties to have an EPC rating of at least E. Properties rated below E cannot be legally let unless a valid exemption is registered.

Private rental properties must meet EPC rating E or higher
Exemptions may be granted for listed buildings, properties with consent to demolish, or where upgrades exceed a £3,500 cost cap
All exemptions must be logged on the PRS Exemptions Register to be valid
Landlords should keep records of EPCs and exemption certificates for inspections

🏗️ Energy Efficiency Improvements Landlords Should Consider

To comply with MEES and improve property desirability, landlords are encouraged to invest in energy efficiency upgrades, such as:

Installing loft or cavity wall insulation to reduce heat loss
Upgrading to double or triple glazing windows
Replacing inefficient boilers or fitting smart heating controls
Fitting LED lighting and energy-saving appliances
Considering renewable energy installations where feasible

Keep in mind the current £3,500 cost cap (including VAT) for required improvements before applying for an exemption.

💸 Penalties & Enforcement for Non-Compliance

Local authorities have powers to enforce MEES regulations and impose penalties on landlords who fail to comply:

Fines up to £2,000 for first offences of renting non-compliant properties
Repeat offences may attract fines up to £4,000
A maximum total penalty of £5,000 can be levied per property
Penalties are publicly listed, potentially affecting landlord reputation

Proactive compliance reduces legal risk and enhances property marketability.

📂 TLA Support, Templates & Resources

🧭 Further Guidance & Official Links

For comprehensive official guidance, consult:

EPC regulations apply to all residential lettings in England and Wales. Commercial or non-domestic properties are subject to different regulations under MEES. For tailored advice, contact the TLA Legal Support Team.