Introduction
Are you renting a home and unsure about what your landlord can charge you for energy? This guide will help you understand your rights and responsibilities regarding gas and electricity costs in your rental property. From checking your tenancy agreement to knowing when you can challenge energy charges, we’ve got you covered. If you need assistance navigating these complexities, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to provide guidance and support, making it the easiest legal help in the UK. Learn how to protect yourself and resolve any energy billing concerns effectively.
If you’re renting a home, you might be wondering what your landlord can charge you for energy like gas and electricity. The rules can be a bit tricky, but here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand your rights and responsibilities.
Check Your Tenancy Agreement
The first step is to look at your tenancy agreement. This document outlines what you agreed to when you moved in, including whether you need to pay your landlord for energy costs. If you don’t have a copy, ask your landlord for one.
It’s important to note that if you pay your energy supplier directly, your landlord cannot charge you for those costs.
Paying Energy Costs Through Rent
If your rent includes your energy bills, your landlord may increase your rent if energy prices go up. However, you might have the right to challenge this increase. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s worth looking into how to address a rent increase.
Paying Your Landlord Separately for Energy
If you pay your landlord directly for energy, they must pass on the full amount they pay for gas and electricity. They cannot charge you more than what they’ve paid—this is known as the “maximum resale price.” This price includes:
- The amount of energy you’ve used (measured in kilowatt hours for electricity).
- A share of the standing charge (a fixed fee charged by energy suppliers).
- VAT, which is currently 5% for energy.
If your home doesn’t have a meter to measure your energy use, your landlord should provide you with an accurate estimate of your charges. However, most homes do have meters.
Consider Getting a Smart Meter
If you don’t have a smart meter, it might be a good idea to get one. Smart meters automatically send your energy readings to your supplier, which means you won’t have to rely on estimates. They also help you keep track of your energy usage and costs.
The ‘Green Deal’ and Energy Efficiency Improvements
If your property is part of a ‘Green Deal’, your landlord might charge you more for energy if they borrowed money to make energy-efficient upgrades, such as installing insulation or double glazing. You should have been informed about this before moving in.
You can check what energy efficiency changes were made by looking at the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for your property. If you don’t have a copy, you can search for it online here.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Overcharged
If you suspect your landlord has overcharged you for energy, start by asking them for a copy of the bill and an explanation of how they calculated the charges. If they charged you more than what they paid, you have the right to request:
- A reduction to the correct amount.
- A refund for any overpayment.
If you’re uncomfortable discussing this with your landlord or need assistance, consider trying Contend’s legal expert chat. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems.
In cases where you can’t resolve the issue directly with your landlord, you may need to take further action, such as making a claim in the county court for the overcharged amount plus interest. This process is known as making a small claim.
Additional Support
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about your rights, reach out to Contend’s legal expert chat. They have trained AI experts available to help you navigate your situation.
Remember, if you’re worried that challenging your landlord might lead to eviction, it’s crucial to seek advice before taking any action. You have rights as a tenant, and understanding them can help you navigate any energy billing issues you may encounter.
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