The UK government has confirmed that all rental homes will require an Energy Performance Certificate grade of ‘C’ or above by 2030. This is higher than the current required ‘E’ grade.
It is claimed that up to half a million households could be lifted out of fuel poverty by boosting standards in the private rental sector, while tenants in poor energy performance properties to be hundreds of pounds better off as part of the government’s plan.
Around 40% of rental properties in England are currently estimated to hold an EPC rating of C or above, meaning landlords with properties that do not meet this standard now have less than five years to ensure that the new standard is met.
The announced increase in EPC standards is part of the Labour government’s ‘Plan for Change’, which aims to prioritize working people by lowering energy costs and raising living standards.
“For far too long we have seen too many tenants plagued by shoddy and poor conditions in their homes and this government is taking swift action to right the wrongs of the past,” Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner.
“Through our Plan for Change, we are driving up housing standards, improving quality of life, and slashing energy bills for working people and families. Today is just one of many steps we are taking to deliver on our promise to transform the lives of millions of renters across the country, so families can put down roots and raise their children in secure and healthy homes.”
The government is working in consultation with both tenants and landlords to gain feedback on its latest proposals to boost living standards within the rental sector.
These include several reforms intended to cut the cost of energy bills, including:
This consultation is being held in tandem with further consultation on a revised fuel poverty strategy focused on improving the energy performance of homes, supporting low-income households with energy affordability and protecting them from high prices.
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