Landlords across England and Wales are being urged to start planning for forthcoming energy efficiency requirements.

This is because the 2030 EPC deadline is nearing, and raises fresh questions over whether to upgrade lower-rated rental properties or sell them altogether.

Under the new rules, privately rented homes will need to meet a new EPC C-equivalent standard by October 1 2030, unless an exemption applies; and landlords could be required to invest up to £10,000 per property in qualifying energy efficiency improvements.

Government analysis estimates the average spend required to meet the new standard could be around £5,400 per property.

Under the new framework, properties will be required to achieve the equivalent of an EPC C rating against new EPC metrics. 

Property buying service LandlordBuyer says the financial implications are likely to be a key consideration for landlords.

Managing director Jason Harris-Cohen comments: “For some, investing in improvements will make complete financial sense. For others, particularly where substantial work is required, selling could become the more attractive option.

“Every property should be assessed on its own merits. Landlords need to understand the current EPC rating, the potential cost of improvements and the long-term return the property is generating.

“Doing that analysis early gives landlords much more time to decide whether upgrading, holding or selling is the right option before the 2030 deadline arrives.”

Harris-Cohen says the changing private rental landscape – including EPC changes and the Renters Rights Act – makes portfolio planning increasingly important.