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An EPC is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and measures the energy efficiency of a property on a scale of A-G, with 'A' being the most efficient. EPC’s were introduced in 2007 and are a legal requirement for a building to be sold, let or constructed. Once obtained, an EPC is valid for 10 years.
The certificate also provides recommendations on how to improve the property’s energy efficiency with a view to achieving a better result after improvements are made to help save money for whoever if paying the energy bill and help the environment.
Currently the government’s minimum Level of Energy Efficiency standard for all domestic private rented property is EPC band E but they have just announce (February 2025) that they are consulting on new plans to mandate all private landlords in England and Wales to meet a higher energy performance rating of EPC band C in their properties by 2030.
Previous to this, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero had proposed that all rental properties will need an EPC rating of ‘C’ or above by 2025 the new regulations were planned to be introduced for new tenancies first, followed by all tenancies from 2028 however despite a consultation that started in 2020, the government scrapped all deadlines in Sept 2023, so it awaits to be seen if the current consultation will result in the increased EPC standards being put in place or not.
Either way, everyone here at Readylet properties understand how important it is for the properties we sell to be as energy efficient as possible, so as part of ReadyLets refurbishment process we ensure the properties have the following-
This means that the majority of the properties we sell already have EPC grade C/D. We then continue to work closely with Durham Warm home Scheme, engaging with all the local initiatives available relating to the thermal enveloping of groups of properties an area at a time, which include various insulation options and external wall cladding (shown on the properties in the picture below) often fitted free of charge. Following the insulation work the properties will then usually achieve an EPC grade C or above.
We also work with an EPC improvement company who is able to secure grants to improve the EPC ratings of individual properties with EPC E and below, which means that a whole suit of works can be carried out on these properties (subject to tenant qualification and property survey) which we include in the price of the properties. Work done by this company normally improves EPC ratings to EPC grade B/C, and can include any of the following work
To read more about the current consultation please click on the following link -
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/warm-homes-and-cheaper-bills-as-government-accelerates-plan-for-change