Some 42% of UK landlords are still unaware of the government’s proposed regulation to increase the minimum EPC ratings for domestic rental properties to C, revealed the latest research from MFS.
The data, based on a survey of 459 UK landlords, showed that only 58% of landlords know that the rules around EPC ratings could change in 2025 — however, only 38% fully understand what these will entail.
The MFS research also showed that 64% of landlords are unsure of how they would make their properties more efficient.
On top of this, 52% would consider raising rent to pay for any renovations their property would need.
On a more positive note, the majority of respondents said the sustainability of their properties is important to them irrespective of changing EPC regulations.
In addition, almost half (48%) feel the government is right to take action to improve the energy efficiency of rental properties.
Paresh Raja, CEO at MFS, said: “Despite there being support for making the property market greener, there remains a worrying lack of awareness among landlords about the upcoming changes to EPC regulations, not to mention how they can make the necessary renovations.
“With the deadline for the new regulations just over two years away, it’s clear more support is needed.
“Lenders can help; by working with brokers and property investors, finance providers can ensure more landlords know what the new rules entail.
“They can also provide flexible financial products, which will likely prove important — in the current climate, many landlords will not have the capital available to make the changes their properties need, so flexible loans could be crucial in allowing landlords to keep pace with a quickly changing regulatory landscape.”
