A new government policy outlines changes to EPC standards for landlords. The policy, deemed ‘impossible’ by landlords, was announced mid-July by the new Secretary of State for Energy Security and New Zero, Ed Miliband.
According to the policy, all landlords will need to raise the standard of their accommodation to an EPC standard C by 2030.
This follows a similar policy put forward by the previous Conservation government which was later abandoned ahead of the General Election.
A survey which involved just 21 individuals including private landlords, investors, surveyors and developers deemed the target ‘impossible’. The survey, although small, was almost unanimous and warned of more harm than good.
Mark Bailey of Landwood Group - the firm which conducted this latest survey - says: “This so-called ‘green’ initiative might look good on paper, but it’s built on shaky foundations.
“The focus on improving modern social housing, overlooks the vast majority of Britain’s private rental properties which are ageing and would require significant, costly upgrades to meet the EPC C standard.
“For many, achieving this rating is not just challenging; it’s nearly impossible without substantial financial investment.
“Previously, government subsidies helped with upgrades like heat pumps and insulation. Now, landlords have little choice but to sell or raise rents to cover these high costs.”
His firm claims to have seen a surge in landlords auctioning properties, from single homes to large portfolios.
He continues: “The consequences for renters are clear. As landlords are forced out of the market, tenants will face fewer housing options and higher rental prices.
“Energy efficiency is certainly important, especially in light of rising energy costs. But what use is energy efficiency if people can’t afford a place to live? The Government needs to address the housing crisis before imposing such stringent requirements. As it stands, this policy risks doing more harm than good.”
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