Buy-to-Let Watch Episode 13: Helping Landlords Prepare for EPC Rules. How advisers can help landlords incorporate energy improvements into their routine property management.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) reform remains a key issue for landlords.
Though the original 2025 and 2028 plans are paused, the latest government consultation from February 2025 has revived discussions. Current proposals would require landlords to achieve an EPC rating of C or higher by April 2028 for new tenancies, and by April 2030 for all tenancies.
A proposed £15,000 cap per property (with possible adjustments based on affordability) has brought EPC compliance firmly back into focus.
“Even with uncertainty, landlords should not wait,” says Liz Syms, CEO of Connect for Intermediaries. “Delaying improvements could mean higher costs and limited availability of qualified installers.”
Buy-to-Let Watch Episode 13 | Financial Pressures on Portfolio Landlords
A £15,000 spend may appear manageable for one property. Yet landlords with portfolios of 10 to 25 properties will face a substantial financial challenge. Many will need to arrange extra borrowing to cover the works.
Lenders are reacting. Buy-to-let mortgage products now offer incentives for properties rated A to C. These include higher loan-to-values (LTVs), lower interest rates, green further advances, cashback for renovations, and product transfer offers.
“The market is changing quickly. Advisers who stay informed can help landlords plan and secure funding early,” adds Liz.
Buy-to-Let Watch Episode 13 | Grants and Finance Options
Advisers should also remind clients about current grants such as ECO4, which runs until March 2026. This can subsidise insulation and heating upgrades for properties with low-income tenants.
Property-linked finance is under review. If approved, repayments could be tied to the property rather than the borrower. This may help lower rates and reduce lending risks.
“This could make a real difference,” says Liz. “Landlords should get clear advice on these new funding options.”
Importance of an Accurate EPC
A simple step is to encourage landlords to obtain updated EPCs.
“Many landlords still rely on old EPCs that do not reflect recent improvements,” warns Liz. “A new EPC could show they are closer to compliance than they think.”
Tools such as Propflo can help landlords plan effective upgrades.
Supporting Portfolio Planning
Advisers should cover EPC upgrades in every portfolio review. For any property below a C rating, advisers can suggest budgeting around £10,000 and explore funding options. These include grants, lender incentives, and borrowing.
“If landlords plan now, they can avoid higher costs later or risk becoming mortgage prisoners by 2028,” Liz explains.
The Wider Market
Over 2.5 million private rented homes in England still fall within EPC bands D to G, according to the English Housing Survey. Penalties of up to £30,000 per breach are being proposed.
The market is shifting. Some landlords are selling off lower-rated stock. Others are buying or upgrading properties to achieve better long-term returns.
“Energy-efficient properties can command stronger rents, attract tenants faster, and qualify for better mortgage rates,” says Liz. “Advisers can help landlords view energy upgrades as a smart investment, not just a regulatory expense.”
Connect for Intermediaries encourages advisers to review green mortgage products. There are currently more than 350 options from both specialist and mainstream lenders. Tools such as Twenty7tec can help source suitable products.
By helping landlords plan ahead, review funding, and access grants, advisers can ensure their clients stay prepared as the EPC rules progress.
Thank you for reading our guide, “Buy-to-Let Watch Episode 13: Helping Landlords Prepare for EPC Rules. ” Stay “Connect“-ed for more updates soon!
