Over the last few years, landlords have faced many changes. Tax reforms, rental reforms and energy efficiency measures have meant renting out properties is more complex (and expensive) than ever. But with changes to Government plans announced last Wednesday, is good news on the horizon?
In August, controversial (and costly plans) for improved EPC targets by 2025 were scrapped by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
So, how does this impact property investors (and tenants)?
In this quick read, we look at what’s been going on.
What’s it all about?
As part of the Net Zero by 2050 agenda, the Government aimed to reduce carbon emissions by 68% by 2030 through a series of reforms. One requirement was for all rental properties to boost EPC ratings to a minimum of C by 2025. Others included banning the use of gas boilers in new-builds.
Many landlords have been extremely concerned about the affordability of energy efficiency measures like double glazing, heat pumps and additional insulation. This has resulted in many landlords changing the types of properties they invest in or exiting the rental market completely.
What’s happened now?
The Government has decided to scrap these proposed reforms and take a “more pragmatic, proportionate, and realistic approach.”
As a reaction to the cost-of-living crisis, the Government acknowledged that significant changes within two years would severely impact people already struggling to meet everyday costs.
Impact on tenants
Initially, the proposals may have caused rent increases, so landlords could make the necessary changes. There were also concerns that properties would need to be vacant to complete all the work. For now, with the recent news, these concerns have eased.
What do these changes mean for landlords?
With the two-year target off the books, landlords might be able to breathe a sigh of relief for a little while at least.
However, that doesn’t mean they should ignore energy efficiency measures altogether.
Reducing carbon emissions is still on the Government agenda and should be a priority for everyone, especially landlords.
Changes to gas use and boiler requirements may be implemented even if at a later date.
For more advice about energy efficiency measures and how they affect your rental investments, speaking to an experienced letting agent is always a good idea.
They’ll be up to date with all policy changes and can help you prepare for what’s coming – whenever that may be.
If you’re a landlord and need advice or have a property to rent, call us at Ensum Brown, we’re here to help.
