LANDLORDS MUST SPEND THOUSANDS TO MEET NEW EPC STANDARDS?
Landlords may have to spend thousands to meet new government demands to improve energy efficiency in rental properties.
There is new legislation announced by Government stating that EPC regulations to change the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for all domestic rented properties to a minimum EPC rating of C will take effect in 2025.
Currently, the minimum energy efficiency standards allowed for rented properties to be legally let out are a minimum of an E rating on their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
New Tenancies 2025
From 2025, all newly rented properties on the market will need to have a certification rating of C or above to comply with this new directive.
Existing Tenancies – 2028
All existing tenancies are being given a grace period until 2028 to comply.
Penalties For Non Compliance
Landlords who choose not to comply, will face penalties of up to £5000.
Why The Change?
- The changes are to ensure rented properties are improved by landlords to ensure a decent standard of living for all private tenants.
- Rented properties have been notorious in the past for high bills and fuel poverty as well as a poor standard of living.
- These new regulations will force home improvements on landlords or they will be fined.
- This scheme will also assist the government's net-carbon zero targets for the future.
How Will The New Regulations Affect Landlords?
Having to move from a minimum E rating to a C could potentially cost landlords thousands of pounds as they will be expected to pay for either insulating their properties to retain heat or use other ‘fabric first’ features that can help to improve heating and lighting.
How Can Landlords Improve Their EPC Rating?
The below list will help landlords to improve property rating. You should aim to utilise as many as possible.
- Change existing lighting to LED light bulbs
- Insulate cavity walls
- Insulate The Loft
- Improve windows with double or triple glazing
- Install an energy-efficient boiler
- Use a smart meter - Free From your energy supplier.
- Renewable Energy - Solar panels and ground-source heat pumps
ElliotLee can help you prepare your property for future changes needed to meet regulations. We can help you arrange some quotes with our EPC assessors and contractors. Please get in touch using the contact form.
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