Retrofit Roadmap Unveiled: What Landlords Should Do Next

The recent announcement of the Warm Homes Plan has brought some much-needed clarity for landlords in the Private Rented Sector (PRS). The goal is to ensure all PRS properties achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) band C by 2030. This means landlords must now focus on making their properties more energy efficient, but what does that actually mean?

Understanding EPC bands can be tricky. An EPC assesses a property’s energy efficiency and provides a rating from A to G, with A being the most efficient and G the least. Currently, many PRS properties are likely to have lower ratings due to older building standards. The plan aims to raise these ratings significantly by 2030.

So, what measures will make the biggest difference? Insulation is key—both external walls and loft insulation can dramatically improve a property’s efficiency. Double or even triple glazing windows are also highly effective. However, it's important to prioritise work in the correct order: start with basic improvements like draught proofing before moving on to more complex tasks such as installing new boilers.

A common mistake is trying to tackle everything at once. This can be overwhelming and costly. Instead, focus on the most impactful changes first. For example, upgrading from single to double glazing or adding cavity wall insulation will often yield better results than minor improvements like replacing light bulbs.

Practical next steps for landlords include reviewing your property’s current EPC rating, prioritising energy-saving measures based on their impact, and engaging with an accredited assessor who can provide a detailed retrofit plan. Remember, the sooner you start, the smoother the process will be, and the more cost-effective it will become in the long run.

Written in response to The Warm Homes Plan is Here: What Landlords Need to Know (and Do) Now, published by Ecofurb. Read their original report for the full details.