Landlords in England face higher costs and tighter compliance challenges from Sunday 22 June, as new Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rules take effect. The changes are part of Labour’s Warm Homes Plan, which aims to drive up energy efficiency in rented homes — but could leave some landlords paying significantly more or being forced out of the market altogether.

What’s Changing with EPC Assessments?

From Sunday, energy assessors will be required to use a more detailed data collection system, including:

• Measuring each window individually (orientation, frame type, age, draught-proofing)

• Documenting extractor fans, blocked chimneys, and more internal features

• Applying updated scoring for electric heating systems and revised carbon emission assumptions

Chris Norris, of the NRLA, warns this extra workload will increase the cost of an EPC by at least £20, while some advisers say the cost could rise to £150–£250 per property.

Impact on EPC Ratings

Experts caution that many properties will drop a band under the new system, especially:

• Older homes (e.g. 1960s builds with poor insulation)

• Properties with electric heating or missing upgrades like smart meters

Dropping from EPC C to D could make a home unlettable under incoming legal standards.

The Bigger Picture: Rental Sector Reform & Green Mandates

• From 2028, all new tenancies must meet at least EPC Band C

• By 2030, all rental properties must meet this standard

• Labour’s Home Energy Model, set to replace EPCs entirely, will favour smart tech compatibility, potentially penalising landlords and owners who reject smart meters

Financial Impact on Landlords

• EPC costs rising from £50–£120 to £150–£250 per certificate

• Retrofit upgrades like insulation or heat pumps may cost up to £15,000 per property

• Portfolio landlords face major compliance costs across multiple properties

• The £13.2bn Warm Homes Plan funding is available, but many fear it won’t go far enough

Kundan Bhaduri, of Kushman Group, calls it “death by a thousand clipboard checks.”

Campaigners Call for Rent Protections

Groups like Generation Rent welcome the upgrades but demand:

• Rent caps and eviction protections for tenants where landlords access public retrofit grants

• Changes to the Renters’ Rights Bill to include protections from rent hikes post-upgrades

They argue that fuel-poor renters should not be penalised for landlords making energy efficiency improvements funded by the taxpayer.

🏛️ Government Position

A government spokesperson said:

“Everyone deserves to live in a warm, comfortable home. These long-planned changes make EPC assessments more thorough, giving people a clearer picture of how energy efficient their home is.”