Powys renters look set to get hit by some of worst effects of the energy crisis according to new research.

Research by Homesearch found the Llandrindod and Shrewsbury postcodes were in the top 10 worst postcodes in the country for energy efficiency for rental properties – meaning they will be most vulnerable to coming further rises in energy prices this winter.

The area in the south of the county covered by the Llandrindod postcode (LD) was the fourth worst area in the country with almost three quarters (73.9 per cent) of rental properties having a poor D-G Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating. This was only behind the Blackburn, Llandudno and Blackpool postcodes.

The SY postcode that covers Montgomeryshire – as part of a huge area stretching from south Shropshire to Ceredigion – came in 10th in the list with 71.6 percent of properties being in the lowest category – still nearly 10 per cent above the national average.

The research showed a worrying picture nationally as tenants struggle with their personal finances during the energy price crisis facing the nation with news yesterday that energy bills could rise to over £4,000 per year in January for the average household.

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Homesearch data found that 62% of rental properties in the UK are not energy efficient and have an EPC rating of D-G.

Sam Hunter, chief operating officer of Homesearch, said “With rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis set to worsen, over half of those renting in the UK will pay a premium for their energy usage simply due to the energy inefficiency of their home.

"Our data indicates a clear North-South divide in the environmental viability of rental accommodation and many households are going to struggle to pay energy bills through no fault of their own."

Mr Hunter also said that how energy efficient a property is will start having a major influence on the housing market in the current crisis.

“Although it is a postcode lottery, we envisage that the EPC rating of a property is going to be a key decision factor for tenants when choosing a rental property, especially as energy consumption and prices spiral later this year,” he added.