EPC C targets could put renters at risk without stronger protections – ACORN

A tenant group has welcomed the proposed minimum energy efficiency standards of EPC C targets but warns renters could risk losing their homes without additional protections.

A poll by ACORN of 252 renters found that 70% fear eviction or a rent increase if they request a retrofit or if their landlord is forced to upgrade the property.

As previously reported on Property118, many landlords remain concerned about proposed EPC C targets for all private rented properties by 2030 and 2028 for new tenancies.

70% of renters fear that requesting or agreeing to retrofits would lead to either an eviction

According to the ACORN survey, 90.1% of respondents reported specific problems with their home, primarily no or poor insulation, draughty windows or doors, or faulty and outdated heating systems.

Renters claimed these issues were directly causing their energy bills to be higher, with the average energy spend across all respondents at £148 per month.

More than 90% of renters said they would want their landlord to carry out energy efficiency retrofits if their tenancy was guaranteed.

However, more than 70% fear that requesting or agreeing to retrofits would lead to either an eviction or a substantive rent rise.

ACORN is urging the government to implement a freeze on rents while energy-efficiency improvements are carried out on properties.

The tenant group said: “Ending Section 21 “no fault” evictions is insufficient if landlords can price tenants out, or choose not to renew already short-term contracts – as most respondents fear. While the vast majority of respondents want improvements, without explicit measures to prevent widespread rent increases after retrofits, the proposals could result in displacement and increased costs of living, rather than securing warmer, safer homes for tenants.

“These measures could come in the form of in-tenancy rent controls and/or a freeze on rents and sales during and for a period following retrofit works.”

Push landlords out of the market

However, the survey does not mention the costs for landlords to upgrade properties, which can run into thousands of pounds.

The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has previously warned that landlords would need to spend an average of £6,100 to £6,800 per property to meet EPC C targets.

Propertymark has also warned that proposals to raise the maximum required investment to £15,000 before landlords can claim an exemption could push many out of the market.