As the energy transition emerges as a global priority, tenants of energy-intensive housing frequently find themselves in a precarious situation.
These homes, characterized by poor insulation and outdated heating systems, not only result in exorbitant energy bills but also raise questions about the legality of rents charged.
As regulations evolve to encourage energy efficiency, many people wonder about their rights as tenants. This article explores the issues linked to illegal rents and highlights the risks faced by the occupants of these energy-inefficient housing units.
Understanding thermal strainers and rent regulations
Thermal strainers designate housings whose faulty insulation leads to excessive energy consumptionoften due to inefficient heating systems.
These homes, classified F or G on the energy performance diagnosis, are at the heart of strict legislation which prohibits any increase in rent. This measure aims to protect tenants against unjustified financial charges while encouraging owners to improve the energy efficiency of their properties.
New regulations and their application since 2023
Since January 1, 2023, accommodation classified F or G can no longer be offered for rental under new contracts, in accordance with new energy decency standards. This ban aims to reduce the environmental impact of thermal strainers.
However, owners can continue to rent these properties if they undertake energy renovation work to improve their performance. These measures thus encourage the transition to more sustainable housing.
The effectiveness of this regulation will depend on the ability of owners to finance and carry out these renovationsbut it represents an important step towards better energy efficiency of the French real estate stock.
The legal impact on rents for energy-intensive housing
Current legislation prohibits landlords from increasing rents for accommodation classified F or Gaimed at protecting tenants against the high costs linked to poor energy performance.
Yet, some real estate agencies seem to circumvent this ban. In a typical case, a tenant received an automatic email announcing a rent increase, which he applied without suspicion. It was only after some research that he discovered that these increases were prohibited for G-rated housing.
His real estate agency explains this rent increase by an automatic sending error. This type of situation is not unique, however, and many tenants could suffer illegal increases without being aware of their rights.
This situation highlights a larger problem: many tenants risk being confronted with similar practices. To avoid these abuses, it is important that tenants inform themselves about the legislation on energy-intensive housing and regularly consult their rental contract.
