LONDON, UK - Landlords across the UK are facing increasing pressure to meet the government’s minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating requirements, set to come into force by 2030. With the government aiming for all rental properties to achieve a Band C EPC rating, many landlords will need to make significant investments in property upgrades to comply with the new standards.
Currently, the average EPC rating for private rental properties in the UK is Band D, meaning that a large proportion of landlords will need to undertake costly and extensive improvements to meet the new minimum requirements within the next five years. For landlords with older housing stock, such as Victorian terraces or pre-war properties, the task is even more challenging.
A report by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has highlighted the financial burden landlords will face. Upgrading a typical Band D property to Band C could cost between £5,000 and £10,000, depending on the extent of work required. For landlords with multiple properties, these costs could quickly mount up.
While some financial support is available, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, landlords have expressed concerns that these schemes may not cover the full costs. Additionally, the complexity of applying for these grants could present further challenges, particularly for smaller landlords with fewer resources.
Landlords with older properties, such as period homes and historic buildings, face additional hurdles. Retrofitting older buildings to meet modern energy standards often requires major renovations, including the installation of better insulation, window replacements, and heating system upgrades. In some cases, these improvements may be further complicated by the shortage of skilled tradespeople and ongoing supply chain issues.
Jason Harris-Cohen, Managing Director of LandlordBuyer, says, “The 2030 deadline for EPC compliance is an ambitious target. While improving energy efficiency is an important step in reducing carbon emissions, retrofitting older properties can be complex, time-consuming, and expensive. Without more comprehensive support from the government, it will be a challenge for many landlords to meet the deadline.”
Rather than scrapping the 2030 deadline, Harris-Cohen suggests a more flexible approach. “A phased timeline, starting with properties that have the lowest EPC ratings, would give landlords more time to manage the financial and logistical challenges,” he explains. “Additionally, offering more substantial financial incentives, such as tax breaks or increased grants, would help landlords make the necessary improvements.”
It’s also essential for the government to provide clearer guidance and support for landlords, as the private rental market consists of a wide range of property types, from modern flats to centuries-old houses. A one-size-fits-all approach is unlikely to be effective.
As the deadline approaches, landlords are calling for more practical solutions, including increased financial support, clearer guidance, and a phased approach to meeting the EPC requirements. These measures would help alleviate the financial strain on landlords and support the broader goal of improving the energy efficiency of the private rental market.
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