EPC's and empty property tax.

General Discussion

I have 5 flats in an 1890's single walled property. We have had the internal walls insulated and installed high retention storage heaters, however, we have no guarantee that this will give us an EPC of "C." With new gov. guidelines if a property does not reach this criteria it will become illegal for us to rent out and we will have to evict our long standing tenants. We will then be liable for double council tax on the 5 flats once they have been empty for 12 months. We could apply for an exemption but this is only valid for 5 years. Local council have informed me that the properties are classed as my second home. Rental properties which are rented full time should not be treated in the same way as second homes owners who buy a holiday home. Why can private landlords not be classed as a business in much the same way as a holiday let who pay no business tax?