Landlords set deadline to raise EPC scores as government accelerates 'Plan for Change'
A reported half a million tenants in rental properties could be lifted out of fuel poverty by 2030 according to government figures.
As of 2030 all private landlords will be required to meet a higher standard of Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) C or equivalent in their properties – up from the current level of EPC E.
According to the government website, the move will “deliver on the priorities of working people, in line with the Prime Minister’s 'Plan for Change' by requiring landlords to invest in measures such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation or double glazing, ensuring homes are warmer and more affordable for tenants.”
While the policy to improve living standards for tenants is welcome, implementing the rules is likely to cause problems and have some unintended consequences.
Anthony Emmerson, director at Trinity Financial, says: “It is complete nonsense to think that most rental properties could have the EPC rating increased to achieve a C level over such a short period. This is because we have old housing stock and simply do not have enough contractors to do the huge amount of work required.
"Even if it was possible, it would cost tens of thousands to fix many of these properties, and it would also mean many tenants would need to move out of the property while the work is completed.
"This will be the final blow for a large number of landlords who simply do not have the financial capital to carry out the work. This legislation will also mean we have a much smaller number of rental properties at a time when we already do not have sufficient rental stock. It will almost certainly lead to increased rents due to the supply and demand imbalance."
Requiring all landlords to meet the new standard by 2030 at the latest, providing an extra 2 years compared with previous proposals. Homes that are already rated A-C before the introduction of new Energy Performance Certificates would be considered compliant until they expire.
Figures in The Telegraph show Labour estimates the average cost to upgrade a property to be between £6,100 and £6,800. This is likely to be significantly more for many properties.
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The information contained within was correct at the time of publication but is subject to change.
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