Many landlords may already be far closer to meeting proposed 2030 energy efficiency targets than expected, particularly those with smaller rental homes and flats, according to latest analysis from property management specialist Rushbrook & Rathbone.
The research, based on almost 590,000 EPC certificates lodged during 2026, suggests a large proportion of privately rented homes are already hovering around the Government’s proposed EPC C threshold – despite growing concern across the sector over the potential cost of compliance.
The findings come as ministers continue consulting on plans requiring privately rented properties in England and Wales to achieve a minimum EPC C rating by 2030, with landlords facing mounting pressure from wider reforms linked to the Renters’ Rights Act and decarbonisation targets.
Rushbrook & Rathbone found that homes with two and three habitable rooms currently achieve an average EPC score of 70.2 – comfortably inside the current EPC C banding range of 69 to 80.
FLATS OUTPERFORM HOUSES
Flats performed strongest overall, with an average EPC score of 72.8, outperforming houses, maisonettes and bungalows. Privately rented homes also compared favourably with owner-occupied properties, averaging 68.9 compared to 68.1 for owner occupiers.
However, larger homes continue to lag behind. Properties with more than nine habitable rooms recorded an average EPC score of 63.0, firmly within EPC D territory and potentially requiring more extensive upgrades ahead of any future deadline.
The issue remains highly sensitive across the lettings sector, with industry bodies including Propertymark and the National Residential Landlords Association previously warning that excessive upgrade costs risk driving landlords out of the market and worsening supply shortages.
COMPLIANCE CHALLENGE
Roma Sharma (main picture, inset), Managing Director of Rushbrook & Rathbone, says: “There has understandably been a great deal of concern amongst landlords regarding proposed EPC requirements and the potential cost of bringing properties up to standard.
“However, what this data suggests is that many landlords may already be in a far stronger position than they expect, particularly those with smaller rental homes or flats, which naturally tend to perform better from an energy efficiency perspective.”
She adds that many landlords had already improved heating systems, insulation and glazing during recent refurbishment programmes, but warned compliance would remain an ongoing challenge as regulation evolves.
“For many landlords, the challenge over the next four years may be less about dramatic upgrades and more about ensuring standards are maintained consistently over time through proactive management, regular maintenance and ongoing investment in the property.”
