The private rental sector (PRS) is under pressure to evolve—and fast. With upcoming changes to EPC regulations and the Renters Reform Bill, landlords, agents, and tenants alike are calling for clear, practical guidance from the government. Allison Thompson, National Lettings MD at LRG (formerly Leaders Romans Group), stresses the urgency: “Improving energy efficiency is something the sector supports, but it must be done without driving good landlords out of the market.”

If EPC C is the target by 2030, then landlords need to know how, when, and at what cost they are expected to comply. This is particularly critical for properties like leasehold flats, where individual landlords may be restricted by lease terms or shared building responsibilities.

A Call for Clarity: EPC Rules and Cost Cap

The lettings industry is asking for:

• A single, national cost cap for energy efficiency upgrades

• A simple and fair exemption process

• Practical guidance based on real-world scenarios

• Financial support for common upgrades such as loft insulation, boiler replacements, and double glazing

To streamline compliance, EPC data should be linked to a new National Property Portal. This would help enforcement bodies focus on non-compliant properties while rewarding responsible landlords.

Renters Reform Bill: Positive, But Needs Phased Implementation

Thompson also highlights the major implications of the Renters Reform Bill, which includes:

• The end of Section 21 “no fault” evictions

• All tenancies becoming periodic

• Limits on rent increases (once per year)

• Introduction of a national PRS Ombudsman and a digital Property Portal

These are welcome changes, but without a clear rollout strategy, the transition could create unnecessary confusion. Here’s what’s needed:

1. Court Reform: Before scrapping Section 21, courts must be equipped to handle increased case volume. Digital systems, faster listing times, and housing-specific court lists are essential.

2. Tenancy Transition: Moving all tenancies to periodic status in one step could disrupt the market. We need standardised terms, fixed implementation dates, and assurance on things like rent-in-advance.

3. User-Friendly Tech: The new property portal and ombudsman service must be easy to use. A national data standard would let agents upload property portfolios in bulk, syncing with licensing and enforcement systems.

Why It Matters

Without a clear plan, landlords may exit the market, shrinking rental supply and driving up prices. With proper guidance and support, we can create greener homes and a fairer rental system—without compromising the stability of the UK rental market.

Looking for expert guidance on staying compliant with new regulations? Contact Cribs Estates today—your trusted letting agents in South London.