Tougher EPCs have only gone for now – expect their return soon

In September Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that landlords will no longer be required to meet the minimum EPC minimum energy rating of C by 2025 (for all new tenancies) and 2028 (for existing tenancies)

Despite a consultation starting back in 2020, the proposed legislation hadn’t progressed through Parliament

But it is important to realise the respite may only be temporary: whatever the outcome of the next general election, there is a strong likelihood that the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) or something similar will reappear.

Furthermore, energy efficiency is increasingly becoming a necessity both due to the cost of living and the climate emergency.

Although landlords may welcome the opportunity not to spend on substantial work while mortgage rates remain high, in many cases it will be prudent to take the long view: any work carried out now will help with future EPC regulations, as well as reducing your carbon footprint and providing a more energy efficient home which could attract a higher rent.

Green Building Renewables, concerned that fewer than half (43%) of landlords were prepared for the proposed introduction of MEES, carried out some research which indicated the changes being considered by landlords. In order of preference, these included new boilers (37%), insulation (36%), solar panels (29%), LED lighting (29%) and heat pumps (23%).

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

The Energy Savings Trust provides some very useful information on the various means of achieving energy efficiency with information bespoke to the size of a property. It advises in relation to a range of potential improvements what a typical installation would cost, how much can be saved annually in energy bills and how many kilograms of CO2 emissions can be saved; based on a detached house, semi detached house, mid-terrace house, detached bungalow or mid-floor flat.

The number of options available, along with the knowledge that accompanies it, is constantly growing. For example, did you know that there are at least eight types of heat pumps available for use in houses? They include air source, air-to-air, cascaded, exhaust air, ground source, hybrid, solar assisted or water source.

Joslin Surveyors are experts in EPCs and Home Buyer Surveys. If you would like to know more get in touch at our Colchester Office 01206 688137.

Joslin Surveyors