Nearly a third of landlords are urging the government for financial aid as new regulations will require rental properties to meet an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C or above by 2030, according to research from buy-to-let lender Shawbrook.

The research reveals that 29% of landlords believe the targets set by the new Labour government are only achievable with government assistance. Current support exists for properties in disadvantaged areas or those with low-income tenants, through initiatives such as the Warm Homes: Local Grant scheme. This scheme offers up to £30,000 for a single property and £15,000 for subsequent ones to fund energy efficiency improvements.

Despite the available aid, many landlords remain concerned about the financial burden. The survey found that 16% of landlords fear they will struggle to meet the upgrade costs, while 25% are considering selling properties that would require costly improvements.

However, some landlords have already begun to take action ahead of the new regulations. According to Shawbrook’s findings, 22% of landlords have upgraded their properties to meet the C rating or higher. Larger portfolio landlords appear to be leading the way, with a quarter of those with four or more properties having made improvements, compared to just 17% of landlords with smaller portfolios.

The looming EPC regulations have sparked widespread concern, with 78% of landlords expressing worry, and a quarter reporting significant anxiety about the impact of these changes.

Emma Cox, Managing Director of Real Estate at Shawbrook, commented: “Having a quality, energy-efficient private rented sector is critical, particularly when homeownership and access to affordable housing remain challenging. But this must be achieved with support from both the government and industry.”

The findings underscore the growing pressure on landlords to meet the upcoming energy efficiency standards while highlighting the financial challenges many will face without additional government assistance.