New energy efficiency standards are set to come in place in 2025 to increase energy efficiency and improve the levels of carbon waste that are emitted by older properties.
This means that landlords will need to ensure that all newly rented properties in the UK reach an EPC rating of C or above from 2025, an increase from the current E rating.
Find out more about the new EPC regulations for landlords in 2025 and what this means here.
What Are the New EPC Regulations for Landlords?
Starting in 2025, all properties will require a minimum household energy rating of C, meaning landlords need to take action now to ensure their properties adhere to guidelines set out by the minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES).
Currently, the MEES guidelines allow rented properties to have a minimum EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) E rating, which is fairly low on the A-G scale.
The EPC rating was introduced in the UK in 2008 and was designed to help encourage landlords and property owners to invest in better energy efficiency. The lower the energy rating, the more money the heating system will cost in comparison to a newer and more efficient model.
Investing in new heating systems for rented properties will help to make the property more attractive to potential renters and save money further down the line.
How Will the New EPC Regulations Affect Landlords?
The new Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations set to take effect in 2025 will likely have significant implications for landlords, particularly the owners of older properties.
These new regulations are expected to introduce stricter energy efficiency standards for rental properties to improve overall energy performance and reduce carbon emissions in rental properties.
One of the main impacts on landlords is that they may be required to make upgrades or improvements to their rental properties to meet the new energy efficiency standards specified in the updated EPC regulations. This could involve investments in measures such as installing more energy-efficient heating systems, enhancing insulation, upgrading windows and doors, or implementing renewable energy technologies.
Failure to comply with the new regulations in 2025 could result in penalties or fines for landlords, as well as limitations on the ability to rent out non-compliant properties. This means that landlords will need to carefully assess the energy efficiency of their properties and take proactive steps to ensure compliance with the updated EPC requirements by the deadline.
Meeting the new energy efficiency standards may also involve steep upfront costs for landlords, which could impact their financial planning and investment strategies. However, it’s important to recognise that improving energy efficiency can also lead to long-term cost savings on energy bills and potentially enhance the value of the property, which this new regulation aims to also achieve.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an official document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a building or property. An EPC is typically required when a property is sold, rented out, or constructed, which is why the new rules will impact landlords who rent properties.
The EPC includes details about the energy efficiency rating of the property, ranging from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), as well as recommendations for improving energy efficiency and reducing energy costs.
EPCs are generated following an assessment carried out by an accredited energy assessor, who examines various aspects of the property, such as insulation, heating systems, lighting, and more, to determine its energy performance.
The aim of an EPC is to help property owners and tenants make informed decisions about energy usage and potentially lower energy bills by implementing energy-saving measures.
How to Improve EPC Rating for Landlords
Landlords can take several steps to improve the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of their rental properties. By implementing some of the below improvements, landlords can enhance energy efficiency and potentially increase the property’s value.
Here are some strategies to improve EPC:
Insulation Upgrades: Improve insulation in the property’s walls, roof, and floors to reduce heat loss and improve thermal efficiency, such as adding loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and insulating pipes and hot water tanks.
Upgrade Heating Systems: Installing a more energy-efficient heating system, such as a modern condensing boiler, heat pump, or biomass boiler can help the energy rating of a rental property. Ensure that the heating system is properly sized for the property and fitted with programmable thermostats and radiator valves to optimise energy usage.
Energy-Efficient Lighting: Replace traditional incandescent or halogen light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs, which consume less electricity and have a longer lifespan.
Double Glazing: Install double or triple glazing on windows to improve insulation and reduce heat loss. Upgrading windows can also enhance security and noise insulation in addition to improving energy efficiency.
Air Tightness Improvements: Seal gaps and cracks around doors, windows, pipes, and other openings to prevent drafts. This can be achieved through caulking, weatherstripping, and installing draft excluders.
Renewable Energy Technologies: Consider installing renewable energy technologies such as solar panels, solar water heaters, or wind turbines to generate clean energy on-site and reduce reliance on grid-supplied electricity.
Smart Thermostats and Controls: Install smart thermostats and heating controls that allow tenants to regulate heating and hot water remotely and set schedules to optimise energy usage based on occupancy patterns.
Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace outdated appliances with energy-efficient models that carry high energy efficiency ratings.
Regular Maintenance: Conduct regular maintenance checks on heating systems, insulation, and other energy-related components to ensure they are functioning optimally and identify any issues promptly.
Upgrade Your Property with D.R. Electrical
If you own a property which is not energy efficient, we can help you at D.R. Electrical to ensure your rental is compliant with the new EPC regulations in 2025.
From solar panel installation to testing inspections and LED lighting fitting, we can help you guarantee your property will meet the regulations required. Phone us today on 07747620164 or fill out our contact form for help in the North West.