After a considerable delay, the Government has finally released the updated methodology for Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) — known as RdSAP 10

iHowz has long been urging government ministers to release this methodology before introducing new energy efficiency requirements under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES).

We are therefore delighted to see this call has been heard.  Note, that that the requirements for MEES remained unchanged, at the moment (properties must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or above to be legally let.).  We are now urging the Government to bring out the new MEES so landlords can finally make proper plans.

This long-awaited EPC update provides much-needed clarity and allows landlords to resume energy improvement plans that have been on hold in anticipation of regulatory change, and is scheduled to be released June 15^th 2025.

However, we remain concerned that the Government are urging us  to heat by electricity whilst keeping the costs artificially high for net zero proposes. This is coupled with a report in February that heat pumps don’t work (see here) and an admission by the Green Leader she still uses gas heating (see here) leads us to question the hypocrisy of the Government.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the changes for landlords:

1. Enhanced Data Collection:

• Window Measurements:

All windows will be measured, requiring landlords to provide access to all areas for accurate measurements.

• Insulation Details:

More detailed information on wall, roof, and floor insulation will be collected, including thickness, material type, and effectiveness.

• Lighting:

The number of bulbs, including LEDs, CFLs, and incandescent bulbs, must be recorded.

• Ventilation:

Assessors will collect more data on ventilation systems, including open fireplaces, flues, extract fans, and other ventilation types.

2. Improved Renewable Energy Integration:

• PV Panels, Batteries, and Diverters: The new system will accurately account for solar photovoltaic panels, battery storage, and PV diverters, leading to a more accurate EPC rating for properties with these technologies.

3. More Precise Assessments:

• Heated Basements:

More details will be collected about heated basements, including construction types, U-values, and heat loss.

• Room in Roof (RiR):

RdSAP 10 introduces two distinct RiR types (True RiR and With Common Wall RiR), requiring additional measurements and data collection.

• Wall Insulation:

Assessors can now record the actual thickness of wall insulation and, where available, thermal conductivity values.

4. Potential Implications for Landlords:

• Slightly Longer Assessment Times:

Due to the increased data collection requirements, assessors may take slightly longer to complete property assessments.

• More Accurate EPCs:

The detailed data collection will result in more accurate EPC ratings, reflecting the true energy performance of the property.

• Improved Understanding of Energy Performance:

Landlords will have a more comprehensive understanding of their property’s energy efficiency, which can help them identify areas for improvement and potentially save money.

5. Key Considerations for Landlords:

• Cooperation with Assessors:

Landlords should be prepared to cooperate with assessors during the assessment process, providing access to all areas of the property and any relevant documentation.

• Documentation:

Landlords should gather and keep any documentation related to insulation, renewable energy systems, or other building features, as this can be helpful during the assessment process.

• Potential for Higher Ratings:

Properties with well-insulated walls, roofs, and floors, and with renewable energy systems, are likely to receive higher EPC ratings, potentially making them more attractive to tenants and buyers.

• Compliance with Regulations:

Landlords should ensure that their properties meet the minimum EPC requirements, as the government plans to raise the minimum rating to a minimum EPC rating of C by 2030.