From 2025, all newly rented properties will be required to have an EPC rating of C or above.
The recent Government change in rules would require that all new tenancies must have an EPC (energy performance certificate) rating of Band C or above, starting from 2025. For existing tenancies, the new regulations won’t apply until 2028. Currently properties require an EPC rating of ‘E’ or above.
The new rule changes are in line with the Government’s net zero emissions by 2050 targets. Along with creating more energy efficient homes.
What is an EPC rating?
Measures the energy efficiency of a property on a scale of A-G. The most efficient homes will be in band A and the least efficient homes in Band G.
For a home to be sold or rented in the UK it is legally required to have an EPC. The certificate is then valid for 10 years.
The impacts the new rules will have on Landlords
Improving the minimum EPC rating from ‘E’ to ‘C’ will prove to be difficult for landlords, as it will require a lot of investment. With the government estimating that it could cost approximately £4,700 on average to make such improvements. The older the property the greater the cost, as older properties will require a lot more work and are less energy efficient compared to new properties.
Solicitor, Stephen Taylor of the Residential Conveyancing department, says “I already have investor clients considering selling some of their portfolio where they know it will prove extremely difficult to get the rating to C or above.”
At current energy performance investment is capped at £3,500 for landlords, this will be raised to £10,000.
Once the new regulations are in place in 2025, landlords who don’t have a valid EPC could be fined £30,000.
To speak to a member of the conveyancing team call:
01226 805 190 (Barnsley Office)
01709 364 000 (Rotherham Office)
0114 249 66 66 (Sheffield Office)
Or email enquiries@howellsllp.com
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