A specialist savings and lending bank’s latest survey finds that a large majority of landlords – 73 per cent – have accused the government of failing to properly communicate its proposed (intended) EPC changes.

The bank’s research was ‘made public’ after the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement when Jeremy Hunt once again confirmed the government’s commitment to net zero as it proposes to cut energy consumption from industry and buildings by 15 per cent by 2030.

The Chancellor announced the government will be increasing funding by 100 per cent to upgrade the energy efficiency of buildings and industry to achieve the 15 per cent reduction, as it will be providing an extra £6 billion to the funding from 2025.

Currently PRS landlords are able to let out homes which have an EPC rating of D and above, the government’s standard will undoubtedly become even more stringent. In the past the government’s ambition was for a minimum C rating target to be achieved in England and Wales by 2025, and it is widely believed that future regulations could stop landlords renting out properties to new tenants and/or face fines for not complying with the changes.

The key issue for landlords hoping to comply with the EPC changes is the distinct lack of sufficient information, with 31 per cent saying that it is a severe hindrance to their efforts in making sure their properties achieve the required rating. However 68 per cent of the landlords said there was insufficient support or funding to be able to make the necessary upgrades.

The bank did say the research shows the part that lenders and brokers  can take in helping landlords ‘build’ a better sustainable property portfolio, as 56 per cent of landlords have discussed the EPC changes with their broker or lender; however 40 per cent  have so far failed to discuss the proposals with their lender or broker.

Emma Cox, managing director of real estate at the bank, comments: “Landlords are already grappling with a volatile housing market so it's vital that they are planning ahead where possible. The government has made clear its aspirations for net zero buildings and every homeowner and property investor in the UK will have a role to play in getting us to this goal. However, while many landlords have done their homework and know of the current EPC proposals there is still a huge amount of uncertainty.

“While some in the industry are waiting for a confirmation from the government or direction on the timings of the proposals, others are already taking action to make their properties more sustainable.