Labour Sets Ambitious 2030 EPC C Minimum Rating for Rental Properties

The Labour government has unveiled a significant new policy requiring all rental properties in England to achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C by 2030. This move is part of a broader effort to address fuel poverty and enhance energy efficiency across the private rented sector.

New Policy: EPC Band C for Rental Properties

The UK government has announced a significant policy requiring all rental properties to achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C. While the Labour government in England has confirmed a 2030 deadline, Scotland is taking a slightly different approach, targeting 2028 for privately rented homes to meet the EPC Band C standard.

Policy Announcement and Goals

In England, Miatta Fahnbulleh, Under Secretary for Energy Security and Net Zero, confirmed the policy during a parliamentary session. She emphasised the aim to create warmer, more energy-efficient homes to reduce fuel poverty and lower energy bills. In Scotland, similar goals are outlined under the Heat in Buildings Bill, which proposes aligning with Scotland’s Net Zero target by requiring EPC Band C ratings for rental homes by 2028 and for all housing by 2033.

Reactions from Key Figures

Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero in England, has strongly supported the new measures. “This Government will insist that landlords elevate their properties to a minimum EPC rating of C,” he stated, adding that these standards will help families escape fuel poverty.

In Scotland, the government has highlighted how these changes will reduce energy costs, improve housing sustainability, and contribute to the country’s Net Zero goal by 2045.

What Will Change for Landlords?

Currently, landlords in Scotland must ensure privately rented properties meet an EPC Band E. However, by 2028, all rented homes in Scotland will need to meet a minimum EPC Band C. Achieving this may involve:

• Upgrading insulation.
• Installing more efficient heating systems.
• Improving windows with double glazing or other measures.

In England, similar upgrades will be required by 2030, with potential earlier deadlines for new tenancies.

Financial Support and Incentives for Landlords

Both the Scottish and English governments recognise the financial challenges landlords face in meeting these standards. In England, Labour’s Warm Homes Plan includes grants, low-interest loans, and partnerships with local authorities and the private sector.

In Scotland, landlords can access funding through schemes like the Home Energy Scotland Loan and cashback grants. These initiatives aim to make the necessary upgrades more affordable, encouraging landlords to act early and spread costs over time.

Concerns and Criticisms

Despite widespread support for these changes, organisations like Propertymark have raised concerns about the financial burden on landlords. They have called for realistic targets and additional incentives to avoid unintended consequences, such as increased rents.

Implications for Scotland

It’s worth noting that while England has a firm deadline of 2030, Scotland’s regulations set a more ambitious deadline of 2028 for rental properties and 2033 for all homes, including owner-occupied and social housing. These differences reflect Scotland’s accelerated timeline for achieving Net Zero by 2045, compared to the UK-wide target of 2050.

Future Challenges and Outlook

As deadlines approach, both governments will need to balance their commitment to reducing fuel poverty and carbon emissions with the need to support landlords in meeting these standards. For landlords in Scotland, early preparation will be key to avoiding compliance issues and rushed, costly upgrades as the 2028 deadline draws nearer.

Achieve EPC C Rating With Quinnergy

At Quinnergy, we specialise in helping landlords navigate these regulatory changes. Our Landlord Certificate Package includes annual EPC assessments, gas safety inspections, electrical safety certifications, and more—ensuring compliance with ease.

EPC Services:

• Property Maintenance Package: For a monthly fee of £40, our Property Maintenance Package includes an annual Energy Efficiency survey and EPC certificate. This package ensures that not only are your properties compliant with the latest regulations, but also that you benefit from additional services such as boiler servicing, safety inspections, and unlimited free callouts.
• Landlord Certificate Package: At £20 per month, our Landlord Certificate Package provides an annual EPC certificate along with other essential safety inspections. This package is perfect for landlords seeking to meet compliance requirements while maintaining efficient property management.
• Standalone EPC Service: If you prefer a more flexible approach, you can also arrange a standalone EPC at your property. This option allows you to focus specifically on achieving or improving your EPC rating without committing to a full service package.

With Quinnergy’s proactive approach, you can future-proof your properties and focus on effective property management while we handle the compliance. Contact us today to learn how we can support you in meeting the 2028 EPC requirements.