New EPC Regulations

Preparing Your Property for the New EPC Regulations

Landlords: Preparing Your Property for the New EPC Regulations OR’ The Future of EPCs: What UK Landlords Need to Know Now?

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are undergoing significant changes, prompting a crucial question for landlords: Is your property adequately prepared? Here, we delve into the proposed alterations and guide you on how to ensure your compliance.

For several years, the evolving Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations for rental properties have been a consistent point of discussion and concern. While various deadlines have been put forth, firm confirmation has remained elusive, and clear guidance on associated cost caps and exemptions has been notably scarce. A minimum EPC rating of C will be required for new tenancies starting April 1, 2028, and for all existing tenancies by April 1, 2030.

Evolving EPC Assessments: What to Expect?

The goal of the new EPC system is to better inform homeowners, landlords, and tenants about the true energy efficiency of a property. The updated Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure (RdSAP) method uses more specific, evidence-based information to determine an EPC rating, replacing many of the generic assumptions previously relied upon.

This updated assessment method is designed to provide a more reliable and accurate measure of a home's energy efficiency, shifting the focus from the cost of powering a property to its inherent energy performance. This change is anticipated to offer greater clarity and precision for landlords in the UK. 

Here's a comparison outlining how these new assessments will differ

Under the revised RdSAP

Energy Assessors will now be required to collect more detailed and specific data during the EPC assessment, such as:

• The type and condition of glazing (e.g., double vs single-glazed windows),

• Heating system efficiency, based on manufacturer data or model numbers,

• Whether smart heating controls are present,

• Evidence of recent energy efficiency improvements.

Home improvements, such as new windows or added insulation, will only influence the EPC rating if sufficient documentation is provided. This means invoices, receipts, warranties, or installation certificates will be crucial.

If no evidence is available, default assumptions may be applied, which could result in a lower EPC score, even if the property has undergone upgrades.

Low-Cost Steps to Boost Your EPC Rating

Improve your property's EPC rating affordably with these simple steps

1. LED Light Bulbs: Very low cost (£1-£5/bulb). Improves lighting efficiency
2. Draught Proofing: Low cost (£20-£100). Reduces heat loss from gaps
3. Loft Insulation: Affordable (£100-£300). Highly cost-effective, especially if under 270mm
4. Hot Water Tank Jacket: Very low cost (~£20). Drastically cuts heat loss from cylinders
5. Thermostatic Controls: Low cost (~£100-£200). Improves heating control efficiency
6. Pipe Insulation: Very low cost (£5-£20). Retains heat in hot water pipes
7. Service Your Boiler: Affordable (£50-£100). Improves real-world performance (not official band)
8. Insulation Declarations: Free (admin work). Submit documentation for unrecorded insulation to improve the rating

What Does This Mean for Property Owners and Landlords?

1. Accurate Documentation Is Essential: Going forward, a clear and well-maintained paper trail will be vital. Landlords and homeowners should retain records of all relevant upgrades, especially for insulation, heating systems, and glazing

2. Potential for Lower Initial Ratings:  Without documentation, properties may be assigned lower efficiency scores under the new system. This could impact rental eligibility in the future if minimum EPC thresholds are introduced or enforced more strictly

3. Improved Fairness for Certain Property Types: The updated RdSAP will also refine how floor area, insulation levels, and heat loss are calculated, especially for flats and terraced houses, which were previously disadvantaged by broad assumptions. This could mean better EPC ratings for those property types

Get Started with Your EPC Assessment

At 99home, we are here to make navigating EPC changes easier. We have partnered with a panel of nationwide suppliers. Request your cheapest EPC quote here 

EPC Order Form

While these legislative changes can feel stressful and potentially costly, 99home can help start upgrading now or just explore your options.