Proposals on new energy saving requirements for landlords

Costs to implement could be as much as £15,000

The UK government is consulting on changes that will require private landlords in England and Wales to meet higher energy performance ratings by 2030.

Currently, 48% of all private rented homes have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of C or above. However, under new plans the government is proposing that by 2030 all privately let properties will need to meet a minimum EPC C. Currently the minimum level required is EPC E.

The government estimates the average cost to landlords to comply with the proposals by 2030 would be between £6,100 and £6,800.

The consultation is looking for views from landlords and tenants on the proposals, including:

• Whether landlords should be required to meet a fabric standard through installing measures such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation or double glazing, before moving onto other options including batteries, solar panels and smart meters.
• A maximum cap of £15,000 per property for landlords, with support schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and Warm Homes: Local Grant.
• An affordability exemption that lowers the cost cap to £10,000.
• All landlords being required to meet the new standard by 2030 at the latest.

The consultation closes on 2 May 2025. If you are a landlord and wish to take part the details can be found here.

In view of the potential costs involved, landlords will be following these proposals with interest.