EPC clampdown on private rented sector

Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Ed Miliband has announced the launch of an official consultation on proposals to mandate all private landlords in England and Wales to meet higher energy performance ratings within five years.

The measures aim to lift 500,000 private rental households "out of poverty” by 2030, with tenants being “£240 better off per year.”

The average cost to landlords to upgrade their properties to comply with the proposals will be between £6,100 and £6,800.

The government said “While 48% of private rented homes in England are already Energy Performance Certificate C or above, ministers now want to ensure this good practice is extended to all properties in the sector, making sure landlords are not undercut, while protecting tenants. 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.”

The government is seeking views from tenants and landlords on the measures to boost living standards in the private rented sector and cut the cost of energy bills, including:

• Flexible compliance options. Landlords can choose how to meet energy efficiency standards, starting with fabric improvements such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, or double glazing, before considering additional measures like batteries, solar panels, and smart meters.
• Cost cap for landlords. A maximum investment cap of £15,000 per property, with financial support available through programs like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and the Warm Homes: Local Grant, launching this year.
• Affordability exemption. A reduced cost cap of £10,000 may apply based on factors such as lower rental income or council tax band.
• Extended compliance deadline. All landlords must meet the new standard by 2030, granting an additional two years beyond previous proposals. Homes already rated A-C before the introduction of updated Energy Performance Certificates will remain compliant until their certificates expire.

The government is also looking at a revised fuel poverty strategy which will focus on improving the energy performance of homes, supporting low-income households with energy affordability and protecting them from higher prices.

Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, Angela Rayner said “For far too long we have seen too many tenants plagued by shoddy and poor conditions in their homes and this government is taking swift action to right the wrongs of the past. Through our Plan for Change we are driving up housing standards, improving quality of life, and slashing energy bills for working people and families.

“Today is just one of many steps we are taking to deliver on our promise to transform the lives of millions of renters across the country, so families can put down roots and raise their children in secure and healthy homes.”

Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Ed Miliband said “For years tenants have been abandoned and forgotten as opportunities to deliver warm homes and lower energy bills have been disregarded and ignored. As part of our Plan for Change, these new changes could save renters £240 a year by raising the efficiency of homes to cut the cost of bills.

“These plans will also make sure that all private landlords are investing in their properties, building on the good work of many to upgrade their homes to Energy Performance Certificate C or higher already.”

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