A prominent lettings agency group says while there is widespread support for greater energy efficiency in the private rental sector, specific timelines and clarity on how and when to achieve that are required – now.
Allison Thompson, national lettings managing director at LRG – formerly the Leaders Romans Group – says: “Improving energy efficiency is something the sector supports, but it needs to be delivered in a way that keeps good landlords in the market. If EPC C is the target for 2030, then landlords need clarity now.
“The government should set a single national cost cap, a simple exemption process, and practical guidance that reflects real-world scenarios. This includes guidance for flats where landlords may be limited by lease terms or have shared responsibility for the building’s fabric. The aim should be to get each property as close to C as possible within the cap, rather than penalising landlords where full compliance isn’t physically achievable.
“Timing is important. Any changes to energy efficiency rules should align with the rollout of the Decent Homes Standard. Financial support should be easily accessible and include schemes that cater to typical PRS improvements, such as loft insulation and boiler upgrades. EPC data should be linked to the national property portal, so that compliance is visible and enforcement can be focused where it is most needed.
“With the right structure, we can deliver warmer, greener homes without reducing rental supply.”
Thompson also wants clarity as soon as possible about how to implement the multiple measures in the Renters Reform Bill.
She comments: “What the sector needs now is a clear and practical plan for implementation. The Bill marks a significant shift. It ends Section 21, moves all new and existing tenancies to periodic tenancies, tightens the grounds for possession, limits rent increases to once a year, and introduces both a PRS ombudsman and a national property portal.
“These are positive steps. However, success will ultimately depend on how the reforms are implemented. The transition must be carefully phased and underpinned by clear, usable guidance.
“First, the courts. Removing Section 21 before court systems are ready risks leaving serious cases waiting longer to be heard. The government needs to commit to clear targets for listing times, expand the use of housing-specific court lists, and ensure that digital filing genuinely speeds up the process.
“Second, the switch to periodic tenancies. The plan to move all assured shorthold tenancies over in one step creates a risk of confusion. We need fixed dates, standardised terms, and clear transitional rules, including confirmation that current rent-in-advance arrangements can continue.
“Third, the new ombudsman and property portal. These could drive real change, but only if they’re simple to use. We support a single national data standard and file format, enabling agents to bulk upload portfolios and integrate with existing licensing and enforcement systems. With the right systems in place, compliance becomes the default and renters benefit faster.”
This article is taken from Landlord Today