2030 EPC Changes: Why Landlords Need to Start Preparing Now

For many landlords, 2030 still sounds a long way off.

The reality is that it isn't.

With ongoing discussions around the Renters' Rights Act, compliance requirements, and increasing operating costs, it can be tempting to put energy efficiency improvements into the "deal with later" pile. However, the proposed changes to energy efficiency standards could become one of the most significant challenges facing landlords over the next few years.

At the ELA, we believe the time to start planning is now.

What Is Proposed to Change?

The government has announced plans that would require privately rented properties in England and Wales to achieve an EPC rating of C, or an equivalent standard, by 2030. This would represent a significant increase from the current minimum standard of EPC E. The government's stated aim is to improve housing standards, reduce energy bills and help tackle fuel poverty.

The government has stated that around 48% of privately rented homes are already EPC C or above, but it wants to see higher standards achieved across the sector.

While the detailed framework is still evolving, the direction of travel is becoming increasingly clear.

Why Landlords Should Start Thinking About This Today

One of the biggest mistakes landlords could make is assuming they can leave this until the end of the decade.

Property improvements take time.

Many landlords own older properties where achieving an EPC C rating may require more than a few simple changes. Depending on the property, improvements could involve:

• Loft insulation

• Cavity wall insulation

• Internal or external wall insulation

• Improved glazing

• Heating upgrades

• Draught proofing

• Ventilation improvements

  
  

The government has specifically highlighted measures such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and double glazing as examples of improvements that may be required.

The concern isn't simply the work itself.

As deadlines approach, demand for EPC assessors, surveyors, installers and contractors is likely to increase significantly. Landlords who leave everything until the final years could find themselves competing for limited resources, facing longer waiting times and potentially higher costs.

Start by Understanding Your Portfolio

At the ELA, we're not suggesting landlords rush out and spend thousands of pounds immediately.

Instead, we encourage landlords to begin by understanding where they currently stand.

Ask yourself:

• What EPC rating does each property currently have?

• When do those certificates expire?

• What recommendations are contained within the EPC reports?

• Which properties are likely to present the greatest challenge?

• Could improvement works be scheduled between tenancies?

  
  

Having a clear picture of your portfolio today will make planning much easier over the coming years.

What If a Tenant Refuses Access?

One of the most interesting discussions we've recently had concerns access for improvement works.

Many landlords have asked a perfectly reasonable question:

"What happens if a tenant refuses access for the works?"

This is particularly relevant because some energy efficiency improvements can be disruptive. Installing insulation, replacing windows, upgrading heating systems or undertaking larger retrofit projects may involve contractors spending significant time inside a property.

Current MEES provisions recognise that landlords cannot always obtain the consent required to complete works.

Where consent is required and has been refused, landlords may be able to rely on a third-party consent exemption.

This could apply where consent is refused by:

• The current tenant.

• A superior landlord or freeholder.

• A lender.

• A planning authority or conservation authority.

  
  

However, a crucial point is that exemptions are not automatic.

Landlords must be able to demonstrate that they have made genuine efforts to obtain consent and must retain evidence, including correspondence and proof of refusal. Any exemption must also be properly registered on the PRS Exemptions Register.

If a tenant refuses consent, the exemption generally only remains valid for the duration of that specific tenancy. Once the tenant leaves, the exemption would no longer apply and the landlord may need to revisit the required improvements before the next tenancy begins.

Not Every Property Can Be Upgraded

Another important consideration is that not every property is suitable for every form of energy efficiency improvement.

Many landlords own older properties, listed buildings or properties with construction methods that make certain upgrades impractical.

Current exemption provisions can apply where:

• Wall insulation would damage the fabric or structure of the building.

• Expert advice confirms a measure would have a negative impact on the property.

• Heritage or construction characteristics make certain improvements unsuitable.

  
  

Where appropriate evidence is obtained and registered, some of these exemptions can last for significant periods.

This is particularly relevant across Norfolk and the wider East of England, where many landlords own older character properties that may present unique challenges when it comes to modern energy efficiency measures.

Communication Will Be Critical

One area where landlords can make a huge difference is communication.

The reality is that many tenants will benefit from the improvements being proposed.

A warmer property and lower energy bills are attractive to most tenants. The challenge is often managing the disruption associated with completing the work.

Landlords who:

• Plan works early.

• Communicate clearly.

• Combine multiple improvements into one project.

• Work around tenant schedules where possible.

  
  

are far more likely to achieve cooperation than those who leave everything until the last minute.

The Direction of Travel Is Clear

Whatever your opinion of the proposed standards, the government's position is clear. It wants to see improved energy efficiency across the private rented sector by 2030.

For landlords, the key message is simple:

Don't panic. Don't ignore it.

The landlords who start reviewing their portfolios today, understand potential costs and challenges, and develop a long-term plan are likely to be in a much stronger position than those who wait until 2029.

2030 may sound distant.

In property terms, it's just around the corner.