However, it is contingent on Westminster

Ove the next few years, EPC standards will change. The debates around the changes will continue even while the 2028 deadline looms closer. Most landlords and representative groups understand why change is necessary – especially while we’re experiencing some of the highest energy prices on record. However, several objections have already been put forward:

•         The timeframe is too short
•         Many are concerned about the cost
•         Small portfolio and single property landlords may find themselves priced out of the market

And so, it is with this in mind that help may be forthcoming as we approach 2028. Recently, the Welsh government greenlit such help.

Climate Change, Environment, and Infrastructure Committee Report

In 2021, the Senedd commissioned a report to look consider current policy and legislation. Twenty-nine recommendations were made to the Welsh Assembly in light of this report. Following a consultation from all four main parties in the assembly, it was agreed either in principle or in full, to adopt all measures.

These included but are not limited to carbon emissions reduction, to petition Westminster to align where policy is not a devolved issue, and to build NetZero into all policymaking.

As with many things, and even with devolved issues, it requires Westminster to do its part on those issues that are not devolved.

Efficiency drive needs drastic action

The report writers understood both how necessary it was to bring all housing up to a higher minimum accepted standard of energy efficiency, and to stick to the intended timeline. Initially set to 2025, that deadline is now 2028. Some still feel this isn’t enough time.

The Welsh Government realised that these measures are drastic enough that it will affect a certain segment of the landlord population. Many might need to sell properties to afford to reach targets on other properties or pass the spiralling costs to tenants. At a time when tenants feel the pinch through high energy fees (with more instability expected), this is not acceptable either.

One key policy sets out to make funds available for the private rented sector for retrofitting those older homes so it is affordable for everyone.

The finer details

The Welsh government asked for financial help from Westminster. However if it did not, then the Senedd would make available a series of grants or loans (or both) to help Welsh landlords improve their housing stock.

The NRLA welcomed the measures and the statement on financial help. A spokesperson said many were worried about the cost of work on older housing. Some landlords currently have no help available and do not have the financial security to make it happen.