The UK government has confirmed that private landlords must achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C for their rental properties by 2030. This regulation aims to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and lower tenant energy bills.
While the change aligns with the UK’s broader climate goals, it presents significant challenges for landlords who must now prepare for costly property upgrades.
Key Details of the EPC C Requirement
New Tenancies: From 2028, any newly let property must have an EPC rating of C or higher.
Existing Tenancies: By 2030, all rental properties must comply with the EPC C standard, regardless of tenancy start date.
Financial Impact on Landlords
The estimated cost per property to meet the EPC C standard ranges from £6,100 to £6,800.
A spending cap of £15,000 is proposed, allowing landlords who invest this amount but still fall short of EPC C to apply for a 10-year exemption.
An affordability exemption (capped at £10,000) is under consideration for landlords in lower-rent areas.
How Landlords Can Improve Energy Efficiency
To comply with the EPC C requirement, landlords may need to make upgrades such as:
- Loft and cavity wall insulation
- Double glazing
- Energy-efficient heating systems
- Solar panels and smart meters
No Letting Go’s Take: A Necessary Step, But a Costly One
At No Letting Go, we support measures to improve housing quality and energy efficiency, but we understand this regulation will be challenging for many landlords. The government must provide clearer financial support options to ensure compliance is realistic and affordable, particularly for small landlords.
One of the biggest concerns is enforcement. If compliance is inconsistently monitored, it could penalise responsible landlords while allowing others to bypass the rules. Additionally, landlords may struggle to find tradespeople to complete the necessary work within the timeframe, given the increasing demand for energy efficiency improvements.
For landlords, planning ahead is key. The worst scenario is waiting until the last minute when costs could be higher, and services may be harder to secure.
How No Letting Go Can Help
1. Property Assessments & Energy Compliance Checks
Our mid-term property visits can identify early signs of damp, heating inefficiencies, and insulation issues, helping landlords proactively plan for EPC upgrades.
Learn more about mid-term visits
2. Protecting Your Investment with Accurate Reporting
With the increased costs of compliance, it’s vital to ensure your property condition is well-documented to avoid disputes. Our detailed inventory reports and check-out reports provide landlords with evidence for tenant responsibilities and property condition assessments.
Explore our inventory services
3. Future-Proofing Your Property Portfolio
By keeping up with inspections and documenting all property improvements, landlords can increase their property’s value, appeal to environmentally conscious tenants, and avoid last-minute compliance stress.
Final Thoughts
While the EPC C requirement is a step in the right direction for sustainability, it brings significant financial and logistical challenges for landlords. Acting now will help spread the costs and ensure compliance before the 2028 and 2030 deadlines.
At No Letting Go, we’re here to help landlords stay compliant, protect their investments, and make the right decisions for their rental properties.
Need support with inspections or property documentation? Contact us today!
You might also like
Is Your Property Ready for the Renters’ Rights Bill? Here’s How Inspections and Inventories Can Help
Upload on May 14, 2025 by Emotio TeamWith the Renters’ Rights Bill moving closer to implementation, landlords and letting agents are being urged to prepare for sweeping changes across the rental sector. From the abolition of Section 21 to stricter requirements around property standards and tenancy agreements, the pressure to comply has never been greater. One of the most effective (and often [...]
READ MORENavigating Changes in Rental Regulations: What Landlords Need to Know for 2025
Upload on December 17, 2024 by Emotio TeamIntroduction As 2025 approaches, landlords face a wave of new rental regulations that will reshape the rental landscape. Adapting to these changes is crucial to ensure compliance, protect investments, and maintain positive tenant relationships. Using professional property inventory services is a key step in meeting these new demands. Here’s what landlords need to know to [...]
READ MOREEnd-of-Year Property Reporting for 2024: Why a Detailed Property Inventory Report is Key
Upload on December 12, 2024 by Emotio TeamAs 2024 draws to a close, landlords should prioritise thorough property inventory reports to protect their investments and plan for the year ahead. These reports document property conditions, minimise disputes, and ensure legal compliance. Here’s why they’re essential. 1. The Role of End-of-Year Reports End-of-year reporting provides landlords with a clear overview of their property’s [...]
READ MOREGet in touch today
Supporting you and protecting your property are our top priorities.
Get in touch and let us know how we can help.