The government has reaffirmed its pledge to help landlords foot the bill for upgrading their rental properties to achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C by 2030. This commitment comes as a parliamentary inquiry highlighted concerns over the financial support available to property owners facing significant energy efficiency upgrades.
In response to a written question, Martin McCluskey, Minister for Energy Consumers, outlined existing measures such as the Warm Homes: Local Grant and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Landlords can also benefit from zero-rated VAT on energy-saving measures until March 2027. The government advises landlords to consult its 'Find Ways to Save Energy in your Home' webpage, which offers tailored recommendations for upgrades.
Looking ahead, the government plans to expand private finance options for landlords through a Strategic Partnership with the green home finance sector as part of its Warm Homes Plan. This initiative aims to stimulate and diversify green financing products, offering more choices for landlords seeking to fund energy efficiency improvements.
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) remains concerned about the feasibility and cost implications of these targets. Chris Norris, Chief Policy Officer, highlighted that the UK's housing stock varies greatly in age and condition, while a shortage of skilled tradespeople could make retrofitting properties to meet an EPC C rating unachievable for some within the proposed timeframe.
The NRLA warns that many landlords may opt to sell properties deemed too costly or difficult to upgrade, which could worsen the UK's housing supply crisis. The organisation has called for a more targeted programme of government support to facilitate investment, echoing previous recommendations from the Committee on Fuel Poverty and Citizens Advice.
The push for improved energy efficiency is part of the government's broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and lower household energy bills. While long-term benefits are clear, ensuring landlords have accessible support to meet these ambitious targets without exacerbating the housing supply crisis remains a pressing challenge.