Landlords unaware of upcoming changes to EPC regulations.
A surprising 42% of landlords are unaware of the upcoming requirement for a minimum EPC rating of C for private rented properties, according to a recent survey.
Research from epIMS highlights a widespread lack of understanding about the need to meet Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) standards by 2030.
Last month, the government announced a consultation on potential changes to the EPC rating system, but 40% of landlords were unaware of it.
In addition, 27% of landlords admitted they do not know their property’s current EPC rating.
Craig Cooper from epIMS commented, “Many landlords feel as though they’re struggling against the current, and with the government’s push for new minimum EPC standards, it’s easy to see why so many feel frustrated by yet another policy that may further impact their profits.”
“Improving an EPC rating doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive—it simply requires a clear understanding of how ratings are assigned and which improvements can have the greatest effect on your score.”
He emphasized that while landlords are being bombarded with general advice on improving their ratings, it’s crucial to focus on the specific needs of each property to identify which upgrades will have the most significant impact.
Cooper also pointed out that many landlords will be surprised by how simple and affordable it can be to meet the required EPC standards.
Although a valid EPC is legally required, with the current minimum being E, certificates remain valid for 10 years. As a result, many landlords haven’t needed to revisit their rating recently, says epIMS, a platform developed to help landlords improve energy efficiency.
The survey revealed that 32% of landlords are unfamiliar with the points-based system used to calculate EPC ratings, and 65% don’t know how many points are required to achieve a C rating.
When it comes to making improvements, 75% of landlords plan to wait until the 2030 deadline to take action.
The main obstacle landlords face in meeting the new standards is cost, followed by confusion over which improvements will most effectively boost their EPC scores.
