Expert urges clarity on Renters’ Rights Bill and EPC C targets ahead for Labour party conference

As the Labour party conference kicks off this week, an expert has warned the party “not to leave the private rented sector behind.”

LRG’s national lettings managing director, Allison Thompson, has created a party conference wishlist to outline key priorities for the private rented sector.

Ms Thompson says legislation such as the Renters’ Rights Bill, EPC C targets, and the Decent Homes Standard all present opportunities for change but must be done with clear guidance for landlords.

The sector needs a clear and practical plan for implementation

The Renters’ Rights Bill looks set to become law after the party conference and LRG warns landlords need clear guidance from the government over how the bill will be implemented.

She said: “As the Renters’ Rights Bill nears the finish line, what the sector needs now is a clear and practical plan for implementation. The bill marks a significant shift. It ends Section 21, moves all new and existing tenancies to periodic tenancies, tightens the grounds for possession, limits rent increases to once a year, and introduces both a PRS ombudsman and a national property portal.

“These are positive steps. However, success will ultimately depend on how the reforms are implemented. The transition must be carefully phased and underpinned by clear, usable guidance.”

Ms Thompson adds the removal of Section 21 and the new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman must have the right systems in place to operate correctly.

She said: “Removing Section 21 before court systems are ready risks leaving serious cases waiting longer to be heard. The government needs to commit to clear targets for listing times, expand the use of housing-specific court lists, and ensure that digital filing genuinely speeds up the process.

“Second, the switch to periodic tenancies. The plan to move all assured shorthold tenancies over in one step creates a risk of confusion. We need fixed dates, standardised terms, and clear transitional rules, including confirmation that current rent-in-advance arrangements can continue.

“Third, the new ombudsman and property portal. These could drive real change, but only if they’re simple to use. We support a single national data standard and file format, enabling agents to bulk upload portfolios and integrate with existing licensing and enforcement systems. With the right systems in place, compliance becomes the default and renters benefit faster.”

Decent Homes Standard rollout must be realistic

Ms Thompson says LRG supports the Decent Homes Standard but the government must be realistic when it comes to the timescale of repairing properties to meet new standards.

The government has been vague about what the Decent Homes Standard will look like in practice, with rumours suggesting local authorities may have discretion in applying the new rules.

Previously, an article on Property118 suggests the legislation appears to focus on the condition of the premises, provisions for tenant safety and comfort and the ability to maintain an appropriate temperature.

Ms Thompson says: “We support the introduction of a Decent Homes Standard in the private rented sector, but it has to be practical to follow and consistent to enforce. Too many landlords want to do the right thing but are left guessing what’s required.

“The focus should be on fixing the highest risks in older homes. That includes damp and mould, poor insulation and outdated facilities. The government should publish clear guidance on what work is needed, how it’s evidenced, and how long it should take.

“The PRS must not be left behind when it comes to time-bound repairs. But the rollout must be realistic. Align any new duties with the wider rental reform timeline, and give landlords enough time to plan, budget and complete works properly. That is the best way to improve housing quality without creating voids, confusion or unintentional non-compliance.”

Don’t penalise landlords who cannot achieve EPC C targets

LRG also demand the government give more clarity to landlords over the proposed but not yet law EPC C targets for all private rented properties by 2030 and 2028 for new tenancies.

Ms Thompson says the government must be realistic and not penalise landlords who cannot achieve EPC C targets.

Ms Thompson said: “Improving energy efficiency is something the sector supports, but it needs to be delivered in a way that keeps good landlords in the market. If EPC C is the target for 2030, then landlords need clarity now.

“The government should set a single national cost cap, a simple exemption process, and practical guidance that reflects real-world scenarios. This includes guidance for flats where landlords may be limited by lease terms or have shared responsibility for the building’s fabric. The aim should be to get each property as close to C as possible within the cap, rather than penalising landlords where full compliance isn’t physically achievable.”

She adds: “Timing is important. Any changes to energy efficiency rules should align with the rollout of the Decent Homes Standard. Financial support should be easily accessible and include schemes that cater to typical PRS improvements, such as loft insulation and boiler upgrades. EPC data should be linked to the national property portal, so that compliance is visible and enforcement can be focused where it is most needed.

“With the right structure, we can deliver warmer, greener homes without reducing rental supply.”