Dorset landlords are being warned to ensure their properties comply with new regulations on energy efficiency - or risk facing a fine.

The new regulations came into force in April this year, and apply to new tenancies granted to new or existing tenants.

Under the new rules, landlords will have to provide an Energy Performance Certificate rating of E or higher in order to be allowed to let the property out.

According to the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) Regulations 2015, proprietors of privately rented domestic and non-domestic properties could be fined if they do not meet these standards before granting a new tenancy to new or existing tenants.

And as of April 2020, these regulations will apply to all domestic properties, even where there has been no change in tenancy arrangements.

The mayor of Weymouth and Portland, Gill Taylor, who also speaks for the borough council on housing, said she encouraged landlords to to check the available guidance and contact the council's Housing Improvement Team for any assistance or advice needed.

Cllr Graham Carr-Jones, housing spokesman for North Dorset District Council, meanwhile urged landlords to 'take action sooner rather than later' to ensure their property meets the new minimum standards', while his counterpart on West Dorset District Council, Cllr Tim Yarker, said:

“These regulations were brought in as part of the continuing drive to improve quality of life for tenants by developing standards and reducing costs.”

Landlords can contact Housing Improvement by email at housingimprovement@dorset.gov.ukor by phoning 01305 251010.