Two updates to energy efficiency for the private rented sector (PRS) will significantly change energy compliance obligations for landlords.

NRLA warns new EPC deadlines are unachievable

Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), warns that the government’s plan to mandate all rental properties to achieve at least an EPC Band C by 2028 for new tenancies and by 2030 for existing tenancies is simply out of reach.

The reasons given for the sector not being able to meet the requirements are:

  • High retrofit costs: Bringing a property up to Band C is estimated to cost around £8,000-£15,000 per home.
  • Logistical barriers: A limited supply of qualified assessors and skilled installers, particularly for green technologies like insulation and heat pumps.
  • Administrative burden: Rapid execution would require landlords to source, schedule, and finance improvements at a scale that may overwhelm supply chains and budgets.

The NRLA argues an extension beyond 2028 is necessary and that government support – either financial assistance or extended deadlines – must follow.

Beadle states “We want all private rented properties to be as energy efficient as possible. However, tenants are being sold a pup with timelines that are hopelessly unrealistic.

The idea that millions of homes can be retrofitted in less than two years is detached from all reality, not least given the chronic shortage of tradespeople the sector needs to get the work done.”

RdSAP 10 Rollout June 2025

Starting this June, EPC assessments transition to the updated RdSAP 10 methodology. Key changes for EPC assessments using the new methodology include:

  • Greater data collection: Assessors will now record specifics like window types/conditions, exact boiler model numbers, and presence of smart controls.
  • Evidence-dependent scoring: Without verifiable documentation, improvements won’t be recognised – potentially lowering EPC ratings.
  • Revised heat-loss models: Especially advantageous for flats and terraced homes, which could see EPC boosts currently not available under old assumptions.

It is predicted that the new EPC assessments will take more time to complete and the fees charged by assessors will increase. The obligation to furnish evidence (invoices, product specs, manufacturer data) places new record-keeping and cost pressures on landlords and letting agents.

Stuart Fairlie, MD at Elmhurst Energy states “….an assessor will spend more time at a property and as a result, it is likely the cost of an EPC will change. But in return, landlords will receive a more valuable product.”

He adds “It’s still important that landlords keep records of all energy efficiency upgrades, as without evidence, assessors may be unable to account for improvements, which can impact the EPC rating.”

Propertymark, the trade body for letting agents commented that “EPC ratings might initially drop if no evidence is provided, even if improvements have been made, so having a clear paper trail can protect property owners from unnecessary retrofit costs”

Under the new assessment methodology some types of property will be favoured.

  • Flats and terraced homes: Likely to benefit from the new heat-loss methodology under RdSAP 10 – it could improve ratings without requiring physical upgrades.
  • Houses (especially detached or semi-detached): These properties might be at risk of ratings decline without proper documentation.