A leading landlord association has issued a warning regarding the challenges facing property owners in meeting the forthcoming Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) C targets. The organisation has called for a significant increase in government support, stating that current funding provisions alone will not be adequate to enable landlords to upgrade their properties to the required energy efficiency standards.
The government's long-term ambition is for all privately rented properties to have an EPC rating of C or above by 2025 for new tenancies, and by 2028 for all tenancies. These targets are part of wider efforts to improve the energy efficiency of the UK's housing stock, reduce carbon emissions, and lower energy bills for tenants. However, many older properties currently fall below this standard, requiring substantial investment in insulation, heating systems, and other energy-saving measures.
According to the landlord association, the cost of these upgrades can be considerable, often running into thousands of pounds per property. They argue that without more direct financial assistance, grants, or tax incentives, a significant number of landlords, particularly those with smaller portfolios, may struggle to afford the necessary improvements. This could lead to a reduction in the availability of rental properties as some landlords might choose to sell rather than invest in costly upgrades, or face penalties for non-compliance.
While various government schemes exist to support energy efficiency improvements, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and VAT reductions on certain energy-saving materials, the association believes these do not adequately address the scale of the challenge for the private rented sector. They are urging the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to review and enhance the support mechanisms available to landlords.
The implications of failing to meet these targets could be far-reaching, affecting both landlords and tenants. For landlords, non-compliance could result in fines, while for tenants, it could mean continued higher energy bills in less efficient homes. The opposition has previously criticised the government's approach to housing and energy efficiency, calling for more robust and accessible support for both homeowners and landlords to tackle the climate crisis and the cost of living.
Source: Property118