TSB has set out a raft of criteria changes covering estate management charges, minimum energy efficiency standards for buy-to-let properties and fire safety certificates for potentially at-risk flats.

The lender has increased the cap on estate management charges on all properties built since January 2005 to a maximum of the higher of 0.2 per cent of the market value or £500. 

Previously it would only lend on properties where these charges were capped at 0.1 per cent of market value or £250.

In April the government introduced new minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties in England and Wales requiring a rating of E or above unless an exemption is in place.

TSB will no longer lend on buy-to-lets that do not meet this minimum until the energy rating has been improved.

The lender has also clarified its positions on fire safety.

Previously the lender required a full fire safety report and a letter from the expert who carried out the inspection in order to lend against properties

with external walls and balconies made from potentially combustible materials.

TSB will now accept an External Wall Fire Review report or EWS1 form confirming that no remedial work is required.