In 2004 the Government introduced a tax allowance called the Landlord’s Energy Saving Allowance (LESA), allowing private landlords to claim back money when they improve the energy efficiency of their rented properties.
This is a very simple process with expenditure offset against tax through your annual Tax Return form, up to a maximum of £1,500 per property (specific tax queries can be answered by going to www.hmrc.gov.uk).
It is important for you to act now, as Energy Performance Certificates became compulsory for all new tenancies in 2009.
These certificates will rate the relative energy efficiency of your property and all prospective tenants
will have to see this prior to signing any tenancy agreement.
All individual landlords who let residential properties and declare the income through Income Tax are eligible to claim this allowance when they install the above measures in their rented homes.
For more information visit http://www.changeworks.org.uk/
LESA covers the following energy efficiency measures:
- loft insulation
- cavity wall insulation
- solid wall insulation
- draught proofing
- hot water system insulation
- floor insulation
