Tag: EPC

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Will Landlords Need an EPC C Rating by 2030? What Bromley Landlords Need to Know in 2026

Bromley landlord reviewing EPC C rating requirements for rental properties before 2030

If you own a rental property in Bromley, you’ve probably heard rumours that landlords will soon need to achieve a minimum EPC rating of C.

While the exact details are still being developed by the Government, there is a clear direction of travel towards improving the energy efficiency of rented homes across England.

As a landlord, understanding the likely future requirements now could save you significant time, stress and expense later.

In this guide, we’ll explain the current EPC requirements for landlords, what changes may be coming by 2030, and what Bromley landlords can do today to prepare.

What Is the Current Minimum EPC Requirement for Landlords?

At present, privately rented properties in England and Wales must generally achieve a minimum EPC rating of E before they can be legally let to tenants.

This requirement falls under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations.

If a property has an EPC rating of F or G, landlords are normally prohibited from granting a new tenancy or continuing to let the property unless a valid exemption has been registered.

Failure to comply can result in substantial financial penalties.

Are EPC C Requirements Coming for Landlords?

The Government has repeatedly indicated its intention to improve energy efficiency standards in the private rented sector.

Although legislation requiring all rental properties to achieve EPC C by 2030 has not yet been finalised, it remains a widely discussed policy objective.

The aim is to:

  • Reduce household energy bills
  • Improve tenant comfort
  • Cut carbon emissions
  • Improve the overall quality of rental housing

While the final regulations and implementation dates are yet to be confirmed, many property professionals expect stricter EPC requirements during the coming years.

For landlords, waiting until regulations become law could lead to increased costs and difficulty securing contractors when demand rises.

Why Bromley Landlords Should Prepare Now

Bromley contains a diverse mix of property types, including:

  • Victorian and Edwardian terraces
  • 1930s semi-detached homes
  • Ex-local authority properties
  • Modern apartments
  • Converted flats

Many older properties in the borough currently achieve EPC ratings of D or E and may require improvements to reach a C rating.

By acting early, landlords can:

  • Spread improvement costs over several years
  • Avoid future contractor shortages
  • Improve tenant satisfaction
  • Reduce void periods
  • Potentially increase property value
  • Future-proof their investment

What Improvements Typically Increase EPC Ratings?

Every property is different, but common recommendations found on EPC reports include:

Loft Insulation

One of the most cost-effective upgrades available.

Many properties can significantly reduce heat loss through the roof by increasing loft insulation to modern standards.

Cavity Wall Insulation

Where suitable, cavity wall insulation can provide noticeable improvements to a property’s energy efficiency.

Upgrading Older Boilers

Replacing an ageing boiler with a modern condensing model can improve both EPC ratings and tenant comfort.

Heating Controls

Installing:

  • Smart thermostats
  • Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)
  • Programmable heating controls

can help improve efficiency and reduce energy waste.

Low Energy Lighting

Switching all fixed lighting to LED bulbs is often one of the easiest EPC improvements.

Double or Triple Glazing

Although often a larger investment, improved glazing can contribute towards higher EPC ratings in suitable properties.

How Can You Find Out Whether Your Property Could Reach EPC C?

The first step is to obtain a current EPC if you do not already have one.

An EPC remains valid for 10 years, but many landlords choose to commission a new assessment if:

  • Their certificate is approaching expiry
  • Improvements have been completed
  • They want up-to-date recommendations
  • They are considering future compliance requirements

Your EPC includes a list of recommended improvements together with estimated costs and potential energy savings.

These recommendations can provide a useful roadmap towards achieving a higher rating.

What If My Bromley Rental Property Is Currently Rated D or E?

There’s no need to panic.

Many rental properties in Bromley currently sit within the D band and may only require modest improvements to move closer to a C rating.

The key is understanding:

  • Your current EPC score
  • Which improvements offer the greatest benefit
  • The likely cost of upgrades
  • The potential impact on your rating

A professional EPC assessment can help identify the most cost-effective route forward.

How EPC Bromley Can Help

At EPC Bromley, we provide fast, professional EPC assessments throughout the London Borough of Bromley.

Whether you’re:

we can provide the information you need to understand your property’s energy performance and prepare for future regulations.

We offer:

✔ Fast appointment availability

✔ Competitive pricing

✔ Prompt certificate lodgement

✔ Local knowledge of Bromley properties

✔ Friendly professional service

Book Your Bromley EPC Today

If you’re a landlord in Bromley and want to understand how future EPC requirements could affect your property, now is the ideal time to obtain an up-to-date EPC assessment.

Contact EPC Bromley today to arrange your appointment and receive expert advice on your property’s energy performance.

Andrew Dedman

EPC Bromley

📞 07709 304251

✉️ assessor@epcbromley.co.uk

🌐 www.epcbromley.co.uk

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The UK Home Energy Model: What It Means for Future Domestic EPCs

Modern energy-efficient home with solar panels and heat pump next to EPC energy rating chart A–G

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are an essential part of the UK property market. Whether you’re selling, renting, or improving a home, an EPC provides an official assessment of a property’s energy efficiency.

However, the UK government is currently developing a new system called the Home Energy Model (HEM) which is expected to significantly change how domestic EPCs are calculated in the future.

While EPCs themselves are unlikely to disappear, the methodology behind them is set to evolve. The introduction of the Home Energy Model could lead to more detailed assessments, new performance metrics, and potentially different property ratings.

In this article, we explore what the Home Energy Model is and how it may impact EPC assessments in the coming years.


What Is the Home Energy Model?

The Home Energy Model (HEM) is a new government-developed system designed to assess the energy performance of homes in England and Wales.

It is intended to replace the current Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) and Reduced Data SAP (RdSAP) methodologies that are currently used to generate Energy Performance Certificates.

SAP has been the official method for calculating residential energy efficiency in the UK since the 1990s. However, as housing technology has evolved — particularly with the growth of renewable energy systems and heat pumps — the government believes a more advanced model is needed.

The Home Energy Model will provide a more detailed simulation of how homes use energy, allowing for a more accurate representation of building performance.

Ultimately, the HEM will become the calculation engine behind future EPCs and other building energy assessments.


Why the Government Is Reforming EPC Calculations

The current EPC system has been widely used for many years, but it has several limitations.

One of the most common criticisms is that EPC ratings are largely based on estimated energy costs rather than pure energy efficiency or carbon emissions.

This can sometimes create unexpected results. For example:

  • Homes using electric heating or heat pumps may receive lower EPC scores because electricity costs more than gas.
  • Properties with high levels of insulation but electric heating can sometimes score lower than less efficient gas-heated homes.

As the UK moves towards low-carbon heating and net-zero emissions, policymakers want EPCs to better reflect the true energy performance of buildings.

The Home Energy Model is intended to support this transition.


Key Changes the Home Energy Model Could Introduce


More Advanced Energy Modelling

One of the biggest technical changes is the way the new model calculates energy use.

The current SAP system uses monthly averages to estimate how a building performs. The Home Energy Model will simulate energy use at 30-minute intervals throughout the year.

This allows the model to better account for factors such as:

  • Solar gains from sunlight
  • Daily heating patterns
  • Smart energy tariffs
  • Heat pump performance
  • Thermal storage in buildings

This higher level of detail should provide more realistic predictions of how a home performs in real life.

More Detailed Property Data

The Home Energy Model will also use a much larger database of building products and technologies.

This includes improvements to the government’s Product Characteristics Database (PCDB), which stores performance data for heating systems, insulation products and other building components.

By expanding this database, EPC calculations should better reflect the actual performance of modern building technologies rather than relying on simplified assumptions.


New EPC Metrics Instead of a Single Rating

Currently, EPCs present a single A–G rating based primarily on estimated energy costs.

Under proposed EPC reforms, future certificates could include multiple performance metrics rather than one overall score.

These may include:

  • Energy Cost Rating – estimated energy bills
  • Fabric Performance – how well the building retains heat
  • Heating System Performance – efficiency and carbon impact of heating systems
  • Smart Readiness – ability to work with smart grids and flexible tariffs

Providing several metrics could help homeowners better understand where improvements should be made and which upgrades will have the biggest impact.


How This Could Affect EPC Ratings

Because the calculation method will change, some homes may see different EPC ratings once the Home Energy Model is introduced.

For example:

  • Homes with good insulation and fabric efficiency may perform better.
  • Heat pumps and low-carbon heating systems may be assessed more fairly.
  • Some homes may receive different improvement recommendations.

However, it is important to note that EPCs will still remain a legal requirement when selling or renting a property.


What This Means for Domestic Energy Assessors?

For Domestic Energy Assessors (DEAs), the Home Energy Model represents the biggest methodological change to EPCs in many years.

The transition will likely involve:

  • New assessment software
  • Updated training requirements
  • Changes to how EPC reports are presented
  • New data collection standards

However, early indications suggest that on-site surveys for existing properties will remain broadly similar, as the government still intends to use a reduced-data approach for existing dwellings.


When Will the Home Energy Model Be Introduced?

The Home Energy Model is still under development and subject to consultation. Current government plans suggest the new methodology could begin to appear in EPC reforms from around 2026 onwards.

Before implementation, there will likely be a period of:

  • Industry consultation
  • Software development
  • Training for assessors
  • Gradual introduction of the new EPC format

This will allow the property sector time to adapt to the new system.


The Future of EPCs in the UK

While the methodology behind EPCs may change, Energy Performance Certificates will remain an important part of the UK housing market.

In fact, the introduction of the Home Energy Model could make EPCs:

  • More accurate
  • More useful for retrofit planning
  • Better aligned with the UK’s net-zero goals

For homeowners and landlords, this should provide clearer guidance on improving the energy efficiency of their properties.


Need an EPC for Your Property?

If you’re selling or renting a property, a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement.

EPC Bromley provides fast and reliable EPC assessments for homes, helping you meet legal requirements and understand your property’s energy efficiency.

👉 Contact us today to book your EPC assessment.

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Who Needs an EPC?

Who needs an EPC?

Whether you’re selling, renting, or improving a property, chances are you’ve heard the term EPC thrown around. But what exactly is an EPC, and more importantly, who actually needs one? Let’s clear things up.

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that shows how energy-efficient a property is. It gives your home a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), along with recommendations to improve energy use. Think of it as a kind of energy MOT for buildings.

EPCs are valid for 10 years and are required by law in many property transactions. But there are a few exceptions, which we’ll get to shortly.

So, who does need an EPC?

. Homeowners selling their property

If you’re putting your home on the market, you’ll need a valid EPC before you can legally sell it. In fact, you’re expected to have commissioned one before the property is listed.

  1. Landlords renting out a property

Planning to let your flat or house? An EPC is a must. Tenants should be given a copy of the EPC before signing the tenancy agreement.

There’s more: As of April 2020, all rental properties in England and Wales must have an EPC rating of E or above (unless exempt). This is part of the government’s Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).

  1. New builds

Any newly constructed property requires an EPC. The developer is responsible for providing this.

  1. Property conversions

If you’ve converted a building into separate units or changed its use (for example, from commercial to residential), you’ll usually need an EPC for the new configuration.

Who doesn’t need an EPC?

Not every building requires one. Here are a few common exemptions:
• Places of worship
• Temporary buildings (used for less than 2 years)
• Listed buildings (where improvements would unacceptably alter character – though this can be a grey area)
• Stand-alone buildings under 50 square metres (like a small detached garage or workshop)
• Buildings due to be demolished

Why does it matter?

Aside from being a legal requirement, an EPC can help you:
• Understand your home’s energy efficiency
• Spot areas for improvement (and potential savings)
• Increase the property’s market appeal

Plus, with growing interest in green homes and sustainability, a good EPC rating can make a real difference when it comes to selling or renting.

Final thoughts

If you’re unsure whether your property needs an EPC, it’s always worth double-checking. The rules are fairly straightforward, but getting it wrong could delay a sale or rental – or land you with a fine.

Need help getting an EPC? Look for a registered Domestic Energy Assessor on the GOV.UK website.

Have questions about EPCs, MEES, or anything property-related? Leave a comment below – we’re happy to help.

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The Ultimate Guide to an Energy-Efficient Home: Tips for Every Room

Energy Efficient House

Reducing energy consumption at home not only helps lower utility bills but also contributes to a healthier planet. An energy-efficient home is comfortable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Whether you’re looking to make small changes or undergo major upgrades, this guide offers practical energy-saving tips for every room in your house.

  1. Living Room: Maximising Comfort and Efficiency

Lighting
• Switch to LED bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
• Utilise smart lighting with motion sensors or timers to avoid unnecessary electricity use.
• Take advantage of natural light by keeping curtains open during the day.

Heating & Cooling
• Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping to prevent drafts.
• Use ceiling fans to circulate air efficiently—anticlockwise in summer and clockwise in winter.
• Set your thermostat wisely—lower it in winter (around 20°C) and raise it in summer (around 25°C).

Electronics & Appliances
• Unplug TVs, gaming consoles, and other electronics when not in use, or use a smart power strip to cut off phantom energy.
• Opt for high rated appliances, which use less electricity without compromising performance.

  1. Kitchen: Reducing Waste and Consumption

Appliances
• Choose an energy-efficient refrigerator and set it to 3-4°C, while the freezer should be at -17°F.
• Keep the fridge well-stocked but not overcrowded to maintain proper airflow and efficiency.
• Use a microwave, toaster, or air fryer for small meals instead of the hob or oven, which use more energy.
• Run the dishwasher only when full, and use the eco or air-dry setting.

Cooking & Water Usage
• Cover pots and pans while cooking to reduce energy use.
• Use low-flow tap to cut down on water consumption.
• Fix leaks promptly—a dripping tap can waste gallons of water per day.

  1. Bedroom: Sleeping Smarter, Not Harder

Lighting & Electronics
• Use dimmable LED bulbs to adjust brightness according to needs.
• Turn off charging devices (phones, laptops) once fully charged.
• Opt for thermal curtains to maintain room temperature and reduce strain on heating/cooling systems.

Temperature Control
• Use energy-efficient bedding like weighted blankets or thermal comforters instead of relying on space heaters.
• Set your thermostat lower at night (between 16-19°C) for better sleep and energy savings.
• If using a fan, clean it regularly to maintain efficiency.

  1. Bathroom: Conserving Water & Power

Water-Saving Strategies
• Install low-flow shower-heads and tap aerators to reduce water usage.
• Take shorter showers—cutting just 2 minutes can save up to 19 litres of water per session.
• Fix leaks immediately—a leaky toilet can waste over 750 litres of water per day!

Lighting & Ventilation
• Use LED bulbs for vanity and overhead lighting.
• Install a motion-sensor or timer for exhaust fans to prevent them from running longer than necessary.

  1. Utility Room: Washing Smarter, Not Harder

Washing Machine & Dryer Tips
• Wash clothes in cold water to save on heating costs (unless a hot wash is necessary).
• Always run full loads to maximize energy efficiency.
• Use dryer balls to reduce drying time and energy use.
• Clean the dryer’s lint trap regularly to maintain efficiency and prevent fire hazards.
• Consider air drying clothes when possible—this eliminates energy use entirely!

  1. Home Office: Reducing Energy Waste While Working

Electronics
• Use energy-efficient computers and monitors, and enable power-saving mode.
• Turn off your computer and printer when not in use.
• Use a smart power strip to manage multiple devices at once.

Lighting & Climate Control
• Position your desk near natural light to reduce reliance on lamps.
• Use a desk lamp with LED bulbs instead of overhead lights.
• Keep office windows sealed and insulated to maintain temperature efficiency.

  1. Outdoors & Garage: Cutting Costs Beyond the House

Exterior Lighting
• Use solar-powered outdoor lights to eliminate electricity use.
• Install motion-sensor lighting to reduce unnecessary energy consumption.

Landscaping & Yard
• Plant shade trees to naturally cool your home in summer.
• Use drought-resistant plants to reduce water consumption.
• Install a water butt to collect and reuse rainwater for gardening.

Garage & Appliances
• Insulate your garage to prevent heat loss in colder months.
• Use smart plugs to control devices like electric car chargers more efficiently.

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact

Making your home more energy-efficient doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By making gradual changes—switching to LED bulbs, sealing leaks, and using energy-efficient appliances—you’ll see noticeable savings on your utility bills while reducing your environmental footprint.

Start implementing these tips today, and enjoy a more sustainable, cost-effective, and comfortable home!

Do you have any energy-saving tips that have worked for you? Share them in the comments below!

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What is an EPC Certificate and Do I Need One?

What is an EPC Certificate and Do I Need One?

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

When you purchase a new appliance it always has a coloured sticker on it telling you how energy efficient the appliance is. This is the case for buildings. Each has an EPC rating from A, the most efficient, to G, the least efficient. The rating lets you know how costly it is to both warm up and cool down your home.

An EPC shows information on a property’s energy use and typical energy costs plus makes recommendations on how to reduce energy usage and increase efficiency. If you’re a landlord or selling a property, you must get this certificate ordered before you put the property on the market. If it’s still valid, you may be able to use the EPC given to you when you bought the property.

You can view EPCs for any property that has one at the national EPC register.

Do I need an EPC?

Since 2008 it has been a legal requirement to have an EPC whether you are selling a property or letting out. If you own a commercial property that you want to sell or lease, you’ll also need to get an EPC organised.

There are some exemptions to the requirement of an EPC. They include:

  • A rented room within a house (a self-contained flat within a larger house that has its own front door and facilities will need one)
  • Some types of listed buildings
  • A property that cannot be modified to make it more energy efficient

See if your property has an EPC on the Government website.

How much does an EPC cost?

You should never be charged for an EPC whether you are looking to buy or rent. It should be presented to you for free by the seller or landlord (or their agent).

You can have an EPC commissioned for your personal use, to help mitigate energy use, but you will have to pay for it. EPC Bromley supplies EPCs from £50.

What information is displayed on an EPC?

An EPC will look like the multi-coloured sticker that you see on new household appliances. It will include:

  • An energy efficiency rating
  • The estimated costs of running your home
  • A summary of energy performance related features
  • The energy efficiency rating on an EPC will be dedicated to how energy efficient your property is. As we mentioned before this is graded from A to G.

An older property with no retrofitted energy-saving technology will typically be around a D grade. Landlords are required to achieve a minimum of an E grade and can face a penalty of up to £4,000 for failure to meet this minimum efficiency requirement.

The summary of energy performance related features will help you to see how energy efficient different aspects of your home are. Use it as a guide to work out which areas to focus on first when improving your home’s energy efficiency.

Who can carry out an EPC?

An accredited domestic energy assessor can issue you with an EPC. An estate or letting agent can find one for you, but you can also do this yourself by visiting the EPC Register to search for one in your area.

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What’s Happened in the Housing Market in January?

Home prices experience largest increase for January since 2020

A significant number of prospective homeowners have kick-started their 2024 relocation plans, with estate agents noting a bustling onset to the year. The most recent data on housing prices, offers a real-time glimpse into property market dynamics, indicating an increase in new listings compared to the initial week of January last year. Similarly, the demand from potential buyers has seen a rise from 2023 levels.

An additional encouraging indicator is the number of individuals initiating the process of securing a Mortgage in Principle to gauge their borrowing capacity from lenders. Since December 27th, Rightmove reports that it has recorded nine out of its ten busiest days for Mortgage in Principle activities, with January poised to become the most active month since the inception of this service in 2022.

January witnessed the most significant monthly surge in new seller asking prices since 2020

The average listing price for a home in Great Britain climbed by £4,571 (a 1.3% increase) to nearly £360,000 this month. Despite this growth, the figures remain below those of the same period last year, indicating a level of pragmatism among new sellers regarding price expectations amid the market’s ongoing recovery from the effects of historically elevated mortgage rates.

Notably, there are distinct regional differences in these trends across Great Britain. To view the most current average home prices in your area, see Rightmove.

Essential Insights for Home-Buyers in 2024

Forecasted Slight Decrease in Average Listing Prices by Year-End

The transition from a subdued December to a more active January typically leads to a rise in prices, making this month’s uptick anticipated. Moving forward, it is anticipated there will be a 1% decline in average new seller asking prices across the nation by year’s end. Given the sustained strong demand from buyers at appropriate price points, a more substantial decrease in prices in 2024 seems improbable.

Increased number of new property listings compared to the same period last year

There’s a 15% surge in the volume of homes entering the market for sale compared to the beginning of the previous year, spurred by an unprecedented spike in listings on Rightmove on Boxing Day. The most notable upturns in new listings have been observed in the North East and South West regions. Although this has expanded the options for buyers, the market isn’t oversaturated with listings, as the total inventory of properties for sale is merely 1% higher than the typical market figures of 2019.

Mortgage rates have been on a gradual decline

This presents a more stable environment for the mortgage sector compared to the same period last year. As January witnesses a seasonal surge in demand, lenders are increasingly vying for business, intensifying competition within the market.

The Present Property Landscape for Home-Sellers

An encouraging sign for 2024 is the 20% increase in sales agreements compared to the early days of last year, indicating that many sellers are setting appealing prices to attract buyers. This uptick is noteworthy, especially considering the hesitant market conditions at the start of last year due to the mini-budget repercussions and the rising mortgage rates, which led many to reevaluate their positions.

Additionally, buyer interest has seen a 5% rise in the first week of 2024 over the same timeframe last year, with London and the North East experiencing the most significant surge in inquiries. This heightened activity underscores the importance of competitive pricing for sellers aiming to secure a sale this year, as the influx of new listings surpasses the growth in buyer inquiries.

The current dynamics suggest a proactive stance among many looking to move in 2024, including those who might have put their plans on hold last year due to the fluctuating mortgage landscape.

The housing market in January indicates that 2024 should be a good year for property owners.

Improving Your EPC Rating Before Moving

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EPC Bromley Energy Report

EPC Demand

The demand for EPCs is increasing with landlords continuing to commission domestic energy assessors for the certificates in order to gauge the energy performances of their property portfolios.

On 1 April 2020, the MEES regulations are extended to cover all domestic properties with existing leases. This means that leases covering properties which are rated E or below will be invalid, regardless of whether they have already been deemed as compliant.

How Landlords can use an Energy Report

An Energy Report gives landlords information which is in many ways similar to an EPC. Landlords need to know the energy rating of their properties if they want to comply with MEES regulations and the Energy Report provides a cheaper way to do this. It will give them information on the energy rating before and after energy improvement measures are installed.

The Energy Report is easy to follow with any unnecessary clutter featuring on an EPC removed.

What Information does the Report Provide?

The information is presented in a way which is concise, making it easy to understand. It is generated using RdSAP methodology with the same calculations used by an EPC.

The following details are provided by the report.

  • Energy Rating – The current and potential energy rating of the property is prominently shown on the first page.
  • Recommendations – On page two there is a table with recommended measures. Each measure is shown with its cumulative ratings change. All of the measures would need to be installed in order for the property to reach its full potential rating.
  • Estimated Costs of the Property – The running costs of heating the space, lighting the property and heating the hot water are shown within a table. The estimated costs after improvements are installed are also shown.
  • Estimates CO2 Emissions – The current and potential CO2 emissions of the property are shown on a simple scale.
  • About the Document – Who compiled the report and a disclaimer related to the information contained within.
  • Data Inputs – Displaying the inputted measures and the assumed values used to compile the report.

Click on the links for further information on MEES, Energy Reports, or to book a survey.

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Energy Efficient Homes – Best & Worst Places in Britain

Energy Efficient

Everest, the company famed for double glazing, has recently compiled a survey of the best and worst areas in England and Wales in terms of energy efficient domestic properties.

They did this by analysing the Energy Performance Certificates of more than 15 million properties. Here are the results of that survey.

The Most Energy Efficient Places in England & Wales

Percentage shows how many properties are rated A or B overall.

  1. Tower Hamlets – London – 29.22%
  2. Greenwich – London – 19.92%
  3. City of London – London – 19.67%
  4. Dartford – Kent – 18.9%
  5. Hackney – London – 18.85%
  6. Uttlesford – Essex – 18.84%
  7. Basingstoke and Deane – Hampshire – 18.47%
  8. Cambridge – Cambridgeshire – 18.15%
  9. Milton Keynes – Buckinghamshire – 17.29%
  10. Southwark – London – 16.64%

The most striking thing to see from this list is the huge discrepancy between Tower Hamlets and the rest of the list. Most on the list have between 18% and 19% of their properties at an A or B level, whereas Tower Hamlets has nearly 30%.

This is due to huge investments being made by the local government here in order to ensure new build developments are as energy efficient as they could be.

The next thing to notice is that all of the top ten areas are in the south east, with half of them in the capital itself.

The Least Energy Efficient Places in England & Wales

Percentage shows how many properties are rated F or G overall.

  1. Isles of Scilly – Isles of Scilly – 35.34%
  2. Gwynedd – Gwynedd – 26.31%
  3. Ceredigion – Ceredigion – 24.33%
  4. Eden – Cumbria – 21.15%
  5. Isle of Anglesey – Isle of Anglesey – 20.70%
  6. West Somerset – Somerset – 20.54%
  7. West Devon – Devon – 19.33%
  8. Ryedale – North Yorkshire – 18.34%
  9. Cornwall – Cornwall – 18.30%
  10. Powys – Powys – 18.23%

As you’ll see, most of the places on this list are more remote and more exposed locations. Exposed locations won’t automatically make a difference to the EPC results, but exposed locations located on the west side of the country do have an issue.

The top three locations, Isles of Scilly, Gwynedd and Ceredigion fit into this category.

The reason being is that the western edge of Great Britain is exposed to wind and driving rain. This makes them unsuitable for cavity wall insulation, making wall insulation itself either impractical or too expensive.

Conclusions

This data shows just how effective an EPC or an Energy Report can be when it is being used to compare the energy efficiencies of properties around the country.

In this case the properties which are rated F or G will be paying, on average, three and a half times the amount to heat their homes that properties at an A or B level will be.

If you’re looking to improve the energy efficiency of your property, click here for some quick wins.

Is it worth improving your hot water cylinder insulation?

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MEES 2019

The first stage of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) was introduced in April 2018. A year later, MEES 2019 has updated the previous conditions and landlords and letting agents need to be aware of the changes.

Main changes in MEES 2019

The main change for MEES 2019 means that from the 1 April this year, landlords have had to fund the installation of energy efficient measures in their properties themselves, in order to achieve minimum energy efficiency standards.

There is a spending cap, however of £3,500, including VAT, for overall improvement costs.

This means that the ‘no cost to landlord’ exemption set out in the Energy Efficiency Regulations 2015 no longer applies. Landlords are unable to use this exemption to prevent them making improvements to their property out of their own finances.

Third part funding may still be available in the form of Green Deal, Grants and ECO.  However if those things are not available, from 1 April 2019, landlords have had to fund the improvements themselves.

If any landlords registered their exemptions before the 1 April cut off then they will still see changes. MEES 2019 means that their exemption period is no longer set at five years. Instead all improvements need to be made by April 2020 at the latest.

Landlords not meeting these minimum standards could face a penalty of up to £5,000.

This change should now future proof these regulations. Landlords are required to fund property improvements themselves when funding is not available.  However  their liability is clearly capped.

What next?

The next update to MEES will come on 1 April 2020, The regulations will then state that MEES applies to ALL residential property that is privately rented.

This means that if a property requires a domestic EPC, it must reach a minimum ‘E’ standard before it can be rented out. This applies to all leases whether new or existing.

The EPC Certificate, how does it affect you?

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The EPC Certificate – How Does it Affect You?

When it comes to purchasing or renting a property, it is the person selling the house or the landlord who has the responsibility of obtaining an EPC. However, it’s still important for everybody involved to understand what the certificate is telling them.

Sellers

It is illegal to sell a home without an EPC in place. In order to obtain an EPC you should speak to your estate agent, or for better value for money, obtain one directly from an EPC provider.

Buyers

Ensure that you receive an EPC when you buy the house. Your solicitor should be checking this. Have a look at the recommendations it has and use it to inform you what improvements the property needs. You may even use it to negotiate on price.

Landlords

If you have a property you wish to let out you must ensure that you have a valid EPC in place. Not only that, if you are asking a tenant to sign a new lease you must ensure that the property has achieved a minimum rating of ‘E’. From April 2020, this rule extends to cover all existing leases too.

Tenants

Insist on seeing the property’s EPC before you move in. This not only ensures that it has met the legal requirements, it also gives you a good idea of how much the property will cost to run. This makes it easier to plan your monthly budgets going forward.

Understanding the EPC

The basic premise of an EPC is to show how energy efficient a property is. The main focus is on the Energy Efficiency rating, on page one of the document.

Here you will see two scores, one is the current rating, the other is the potential rating. The EPC will in subsequent pages show you how to get from one to the other.

‘A’ rated is the highest, ‘G’ rated is the lowest. Newer homes tend to have better ratings with older homes tending to have ratings of ‘D’ and ‘E’. The national average for a domestic property in the UK is ‘D’.

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