Letting Agents Call For Eco-Targets Review

Pressure is mounting on the government to overhaul energy efficiency targets in the private rental sector. A Lettings Industry Council’s letter has been issued to the Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government calling for deadlines to be revised. 

The target is to lift the minimum EPC for all privately rented homes to Band C and this would apply to new tenancies from 2025 and all tenancies from 2028. The government has outlined penalties of up to £30,000 for landlords who do not comply.

Rita Tinney, Keats Sales and Lettings Director commented: “While we support the move to make eco-improvements in the private rental sector, like many other letting agents, we have serious concerns about the proposed timeframe. 

“At present the deadlines will come into force in 2025 and this could have a huge impact on the financial viability of many landlords.”

In the letter the Lettings Industry Council sets out its case and what it calls its alternative proposals. 

The proposals are as follows*:

“By April 2026: all new and renewed tenancies to have a minimum of D rating which is the average rating for all homes. 

“By April 2028: all existing tenancies to have a minimum of D rating and all new and renewed tenancies to have a minimum of C rating

“By 01 January 2030: all existing tenancies to have a minimum of C rating.

“Bring the start date forward for the refurbishment works cap from 2023 to 2020.

“We believe this will reduce the pressure on stock available in the PRS market whilst still achieving the overarching goal of all properties in the PRS (unless exempt) achieving a C rating by 2030.”

Source: Letting Agent Today*