By Lorna White, Partner
Registered Office
Dean Street Arch, 22 Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1PG
EPC Changes Revised Again – What Landlords Need to Know.
The government has once again revised its plans for Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) bringing more changes for landlords to be aware of.
Originally introduced in 2018, MEES required all rental properties to achieve a minimum E rating on their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), with a future target of reaching C banding by 2025.
However, those plans have now been pushed back. Under the latest proposal, the new timeline suggests that:
- New tenancies will need to meet C banding by 2026
- Existing tenancies will have until 2028 to comply
It’s important to note that this timescale is still provisional, as final confirmation from the government is yet to be announced.
How EPC Ratings May Be Calculated Differently
The government is also reviewing how EPC ratings are assessed, with a shift in focus towards how well a property retains heat rather than its estimated energy usage. This change could make achieving a C rating more realistic for many landlords, especially in older or character properties.
Support and Grants Available
Alongside the new timescale, there are also discussions about financial support to help property owners meet the standards.
Some schemes already available include:
- ECO4 grants, which promote upgrades such as solar panels and home insulation
- Exemptions for listed buildings or properties where improvements are not viable
Need Advice?
If you’re considering renting out your property or want to understand how these upcoming EPC changes could affect you, our team is here to help.
Contact us today for expert advice and guidance tailored to your property.
