Another council is encouraging landlords and tenants to get help to improve the energy efficiency of rented properties.

Shropshire Council says there are national grants available for tenants and landlords to meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards set by the government. 

Grants offer the opportunity to install these measures for a contribution of as little as £1,000.

A statement from the council says it will work with landlords to achieve minimum standards “but failure to do this or register an exemption is an offence and the council could consider issuing a Civil Penalty.”

A Shropshire council spokesman says: “I would really encourage tenants and their landlords to ensure their properties comply under the MEES legislation.

“With climate change being one of the greatest challenges we face, more extreme weather is likely to generate higher maintenance and insurance costs for landlords and higher utility bills for tenants, and we all have a part to play in reducing the carbon emissions, which are responsible.

“Housing accounts for around 30 per cent of Shropshire’s carbon emissions, but reducing heat loss through better insulation and installing more energy efficient and low carbon heating and lighting will help to significantly reduce them.

“Whether you’re a landlord, homeowner or tenant, you may be able to take advantage of some great offers to improve the energy efficiency of your home and reduce your energy bills at little or no cost.”