Despite the government’s recent decision to defer the implementation of Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) legislation targets for rental properties until 2028, landlords remain steadfast in their commitment to enhancing EPC ratings.
According to a survey conducted by Finbri in 2024, which polled 755 landlords, more than 70% expressed intentions to undertake EPC improvements on their rental properties within the current year. This marks a notable uptick from the 68% of landlords who had similar aspirations in 2023.
Since 2015, laws in England and Wales have mandated that private rental properties meet a minimum EPC rating of E or higher. Originally slated for an upgrade in 2025, with all rented properties expected to achieve a minimum EPC rating of C, the government has opted to postpone this requirement until 2028.
The significance of EPC ratings is not lost on landlords, as evidenced by the findings of the 2024 Landlord survey. A staggering 77% of respondents acknowledged the importance of EPC ratings when scouting for investment properties, while 70% recognized their significance to their tenants.
Georgia Galloway, spokesperson for Finbri, emphasized the resilience of landlords in striving for improved EPC standards despite the regulatory delay. She stated, “Our survey highlights landlords’ ongoing efforts to enhance their properties’ energy efficiency, even amidst postponed regulations. With 60% of landlords having already completed EPC improvements in 2023, it’s evident that they are proactively investing in energy-efficient measures, demonstrating their commitment to property enhancement and readiness to adapt to governmental changes.”