Government must face facts on retrofit timetable

Government plans to improve the energy efficiency of private rented housing are 'hopelessly unrealistic', warns the NRLA.

Private landlords could have less than two years to upgrade properties, under proposals currently under consideration.

If introduced unchanged, the plans mean every privately rented home would need an EPC rating of at least a C to be legally let, with the timelines as the stand proposing the new threshold by confirmed in late 2026, and applied to new tenancies by 2028 and all tenancies by 2030.

With 2.5 million rented homes currently falling below a C rating, we believe that timelines proposed are simply unrealistic.

This is largely due to a chronic shortage of tradespeople to undertake the work required, a situation only set to get worse.

According to Kingfisher group, the owner of Screwfix, B&Q and Tradepoint, the shortfall in the number of skilled tradespeople in the UK is set to rise to 250,000 by 2030.

Ministers are also yet to explain how these extensive works are to be funded and have so far failed to heed advice from the Committee on Fuel Poverty, which has called for the introduction of a bespoke package to support investment in energy efficiency works across the market.

In its submission to the consultation, the NRLA said that while it supports the Government's intention there needs to be a realistic, two stage implementation plan to bring about change.

It proposes: 

• Landlords should be required to meet standards related to the fabric of a building, such as installing insulation where possible and required by 2030.
• All landlords should then meet further secondary standards related to the installation of smart meters and efficient heating systems, by 2036.

NRLA chief executive Ben Beadle said: “We want all private rented properties to be as energy efficient as possible. However, tenants are being sold a pup with timelines that are hopelessly unrealistic.

“The idea that millions of homes can be retrofitted in less than two years is detached from all reality, not least given the chronic shortage of tradespeople the sector needs to get the work done.

“Noble ambitions mean little without practical and realistic policy to match.”

More detail

• You can find out how to access financial support for energy efficiency improvements click here. 
• If you’re interested in retrofitting your home, take a look at our partners here. 
• Read the full response to the mid-scheme consultation here. 
• For more information on how to prepare for the changes up ahead click here.