Under proposed new regulations by the Labour government, landlords in England may be required to install either heat pumps or solar panels to improve their properties' energy performance. This move is part of Ed Miliband’s ambitious net zero initiative aimed at reducing carbon emissions from residential buildings.
The updated energy performance standards will require landlords to achieve a minimum EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating of ‘C’ in at least two out of three newly introduced green metrics. Currently, properties receive a single EPC rating ranging from ‘A’ for most efficient to ‘G’ for least efficient. Failure to meet these standards by the 2030 deadline could result in fines of up to £30,000.
Critics argue that while the rule change incentivizes greener homes, it may effectively compel landlords to install specific technologies like heat pumps or solar panels. Tim Thomas of Propertymark expressed concerns over the practical challenges, noting that many properties—particularly older or rural ones—would find it difficult and costly to upgrade.
“Meeting an EPC ‘C’ rating under the new system is not straightforward or affordable for a significant portion of the current housing stock,” Thomas explained. He further highlighted challenges including a lack of skilled installation workforce, limited financial grants, and uncertainties around how the new metrics will be implemented.
Current funding schemes also impose strict eligibility criteria based on tenant income, location, and other factors, limiting landlords' access to financial support for upgrades.
Responding to these concerns, a spokesman from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) clarified that landlords will not be forced to install heat pumps specifically. They emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring safe, decent, and affordable housing, noting that nearly half of privately rented homes already meet the required standards. The spokesman added that tenant and landlord groups have generally welcomed the new standards as a progressive step toward energy efficiency.