Landlords unaware of upcoming EPC changes

Landlords unaware of upcoming EPC changes

0:05 AM, 4th February 2025, About An hour ago

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A surprising 42% of landlords are unaware of the impending requirement for a minimum EPC rating of C for private rented properties, a survey reveals.

Research conducted by epIMS, highlights the lack of awareness of the need to meet Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) standards by 2030.

Last month, the government announced a consultation on proposed EPC rating system modifications – but 40% of landlords were not aware of this consultation.

A further 27% admitted they don’t know the current EPC rating of their properties.

Introducing new minimum EPC standards

The firm’s Craig Cooper said: “A lot of landlords feel like they’re swimming against the tide at the moment, and with the government now intent on introducing new minimum EPC standards, it’s understandable that many feel frustrated at yet another policy that is likely to eat away at their profit margins.

“But improving an EPC rating needn’t be difficult or overly expensive, it just requires a good understanding of how ratings are attributed and how different improvements can increase your score.

“To this end, landlords are being bombarded with generalised lessons on how to improve a rating, but this knowledge is only so helpful.

“No two properties are the same, so what’s important is gaining insight into exactly where your specific property is falling short and what improvements are going to have the biggest impact.”

He adds that many landlords will be surprised by how simple and affordable it can be to reach the required EPC standard.

Valid EPC is a legal necessity

While a valid EPC is a legal necessity, with E being the current minimum, certificates remain valid for a decade.

This means many landlords haven’t needed to consider their rating recently, says epIMs, an energy efficiency platform developed for landlords.

And 32% of those surveyed are unfamiliar with the points-based system used to calculate EPC ratings.

Plus, 65% are unsure of the points needed to achieve a C rating.

Regarding planned improvements, 75% of landlords intend to wait until the 2030 deadline before taking action.

The biggest challenge in meeting the new standards, landlords say, is cost, followed by understanding which improvements will positively impact EPC scores.


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