EPC rules set to change for residential landlords – act now to avoid fines

New government rules surrounding EPC ratings are set to come into effect in 2025 and landlords should start preparing now to avoid substantial fines, and find themselves with potentially unsellable and unmortgageable properties, urges Mason Thomas Law.

The Minimum Energy Standards for rental properties will shift from an E rating to a C Rating once the new regulations come into place and, if your property doesn’t meet its required ratings, you could face fines of up to £30,000.

The new regulations will be introduced for new tenancies first from 2025, followed by all tenancies from 2028.

Cathy Thomas, Director and Solicitor at Mason Thomas Law commented: “Taking a property from an E to a C rating can take time and cost thousands of pounds. Whilst 2025 might seem like a long way away, making your property more energy efficient now will benefit you in the long run.

“It’s not just to comply with regulations either – recent research from Rightmove shows up to 16% increase in sale price on those properties that are upgraded from an energy rating of D, E or F to C.”

So, what can you do to improve the energy rating of your properties? We’ve created a short list of some of our top tips to help you comply with regulations ahead of 2025.

1. Upgrade your windows – Reducing the amount of heat escaping through your windows, by installing double or even triple glazing, can have a huge impact on the energy efficiency in your home.
2. Make sure you’re fully insulated – Whether it’s in the loft or in the walls throughout the property, insulation has the same impact as better windows and will help you retain that all important heat in the winter months.
3. Replace your boiler – If the boiler in your property is an older model, it might be worth upgrading to a newer, more energy efficient boiler.
4. Get a smart meter – Tracking where you’re using the most energy can help you put your finger on where the problems are and address them a lot easier. Most smaller households can implement a reduction in bills immediately following installation.
5. Energy efficient lighting – Switching to LED lighting throughout your property is an easy, quick way to make it more energy efficient. They use at least 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lighting!
6. Install Solar panels – It might cost a lot now but will provide future savings. Installing solar panels will allow you to produce cheaper, greener energy.
7. Upgrade home appliances – Look out for the energy label on home appliances and, if you can see obvious places where you can increase energy efficiency, kitting out your property with more energy efficient home appliances will definitely pay off.

Cathy added: “If you are looking to make your first property investment or add to your portfolio, and it has an energy rating of D or lower, it’s important to note and budget for the extra costs you will incur in order to make the improvements necessary to achieve the minimum energy rating of C.”

For expert legal support and guidance on expanding your rental property portfolio, or discuss any of the other services we offer, contact a member of the Mason Thomas Law team on 0114 294 5360.