41% of landlords see the ‘importance of EPC regulations’

41% of landlords see the ‘importance of EPC regulations’

0:02 AM, 22nd May 2023, About 10 months ago 10

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Landlords are apparently feeling the pressure over proposed environmental regulations with 41% believing it is essential to meet the planned Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements, research reveals.

According to Mortgage Advice Bureau, landlords are keen to do their bit ‘for the greater good of the planet’.

There is currently no legal obligation for a landlord to meet the government’s proposed minimum EPC rating C by 2025 – which may have been put back to 2028.

Also, 30% of landlords are confident they will reach the proposed deadline with ease – though 46% admit it will be ‘by the skin of their teeth’.

‘Regulations and deadlines that aren’t quite set in stone’

Ben Thompson, the deputy chief executive at Mortgage Advice Bureau, said: “Landlords seem to be working with a lot of information in terms of regulations and deadlines that aren’t quite set in stone, yet the 2025 countdown remains for EPC rating improvements.

“The good news is, many landlords are making progress, despite some challenges.

“There are some very clear and urgent motivations behind making this change.”

Tenant demand for energy-efficient homes is increasing

Landlords also say that tenant demand for energy-efficient homes is increasing with nearly a fifth (17%) being questioned about a rental property’s EPC rating.

And a third (34%) believe improving energy efficiency in the private rented sector will have a positive impact on the UK’s carbon emissions targets and the fight against climate change.

Mr Thompson said: “Tackling the ongoing climate crisis is at the forefront of many of our minds, and for landlords and the future of their portfolios, being able to help tenants navigate the economic climate of high energy bills is key.

“While many already have plans in place, concerns and an element of confusion remains.

“Exactly what landlords are working to, and by when, must be clarified as soon as possible, and this must be accompanied by support to help landlords improve EPC ratings.”

What is needed and when to meet the minimum rating of C

While landlords await government clarification of what is needed and when to meet the minimum rating of C, 31% of landlords believe that upgrading their properties’ energy efficiency will make them more attractive to tenants by lowering their bills.

Landlords also say there are being quizzed by eco-conscious tenants with 17% admitting they had asked specifically about installing heating controls, 16% have been asked if they will be installing a smart meter, and 15% have had enquiries about double or triple window glazing.

Nearly 27% of landlords are worried about the costs involved with meeting an EPC C rating, while an equal number are concerned about finding a trusted tradesperson to carry out the work.


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Comments

Denise G

11:47 AM, 22nd May 2023, About 10 months ago

As far as I can see what is needed first is a clear, definitive and objective descriptor of what attaining each level actually looks like. Currently, and in our own experience, assessors seem to be devising their own criteria based on opinion.
Some have marked down elements they've not actually checked, e.g. depth/type of loft insulation - based purely on an assumption that there isn't any - when there is, had they asked to see it

GlanACC

12:22 PM, 22nd May 2023, About 10 months ago

None of my tenants have ever asked about energy efficiency. Changing the colour of the walls yes, energy efficiency no

Reluctant Landlord

12:26 PM, 22nd May 2023, About 10 months ago

we all see the 'importance', but everyone in limbo until the government makes a decision on what they are going to do about it. So far...nothing - result nothing.

howdidigethere

12:29 PM, 22nd May 2023, About 10 months ago

There is no importance whatsoever.

There is no climate change based on carbon emissions.

This is yet just another fraud, by those who have vested interests.

Darren Peters

13:06 PM, 22nd May 2023, About 10 months ago

Agree with above.

I naively thought an EPC assessor might have some sort of heat loss device that could see how efficient a dwelling actually was. My builder for example has a FLIR thermal imaging device that shows the cold spots - it's not science fiction.

Instead we get, 'couldn't access the loft, assume no insulation, assume wall is single brick construction as couldn't tell otherwise, bulbs are LED, the end.

Instead of just a rant, if anyone is doing insulation work to improve an EPC take plenty of photos and invite the EPC company around during the work so that they can see what will be hidden later. Plus keep the receipts for the stuff: loft insulation, wall insulation etc to hand to show the assessor when they visit.

Denise G

13:18 PM, 22nd May 2023, About 10 months ago

Reply to the comment left by Darren Peters at 22/05/2023 - 13:06
Shocking isn't it how vague and subjective it all is. I have to say we have never been in a property when an assessor has visited, nor do we usually know who we will get to do the assessment until we have seen their ever-escalating prices.
Typically our tenants let them in to conduct the assessment - but obviously wouldn't have access to receipts and bills etc.
The report is provided to us, as the landlords, to share with the tenants/letting agent/estate agent etc as required.
As for inviting them round to see work being done - good luck with that one.

JamesB

18:47 PM, 22nd May 2023, About 10 months ago

My own house is an F.

One of the things on the EPC says "solid wall". I guess the inspector's x-ray specs were on the blink that day because having opened up the wall not only is it cavity but it is also insulated.

He also assumed no loft insulation. I guess the pull down ladder was too complicated.

The boilers were put down as "good". 2 side by side washing machine size boilers from the 1980s that burn gas like it needs to be got rid of. Good?

EPCS to date are farcical. Also, my gas bill has been standing charge only since October since we didn't bother putting the heating on, so the estimated energy usage is way off too.

Plus, my property has its own woods. Do I not get any offset for that?

PAUL BARTLETT

22:55 PM, 29th May 2023, About 10 months ago

The expectation that landlords will invest in better EPC while government does the absolute minimum to improve EPC on owner occupant property (ECO) is obviously unfair and unrealistic. There's so little payback to justify it and so little profit to fund it that it's not going to happen.

JUD KIRK

0:34 AM, 31st May 2023, About 10 months ago

What complete tosh.
Start with the lie of a climate crisis then make completely unsubstantiated claims about everything else.
Facts and figures, cited evidence:not bs!

Emma L

16:21 PM, 1st June 2023, About 10 months ago

It is encouraging to hear that many landlords what to 'do their bit for the planet'. It's absolutely the right attitude to have in my opinion, and it's right that tenants are starting to ask questions, pushing the topic higher on the agenda. However I have to agree with some of the comments above that EPCs are far from giving an accurate picture of the real energy efficiency and are even worse at recommending carbon reduction solutions. The assessment method desperately needs updating or changing entirely.
EPCs aside, I do think being proactive about solutions is better than waiting until it's too late. I am planning to make some upgrades once my current tenants move out. If anyone has done similar recently I'd be grateful for top tips.

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