Landlords cannot let properties if the current rented property has an EPC rating below E, unless they have a valid exemption in place.
Landlords that are currently letting or planning to let a property with an EPC rating of F or G, will need to improve the property’s rating to E or above, or register an exemption, before entering into a new tenancy agreement.
The government has consulted on plans to require all domestic privately rented properties in England and Wales to meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) of EPC C or equivalent by 2030 unless a valid exemption is in place. Further details will be set out when the government responds to the consultation.
Read the domestic private rented property: minimum energy efficiency standard - landlord guidance – GOV.UK
Grants
In order to help landlords meet the minimum energy efficiency standards, tenants with a long term tenancy agreement can apply under the Energy Companies Obligation (ECO) or LA Flex schemes as long as the tenant meets the qualification criteria.
The grant funding schemes are mainly focused on improving the fabric of the building They are limited to insulation and installing energy efficient electric heating where properties have inefficient electric heating systems and in some cases installation of renewable technologies.
The grants will not cover the replacement or repair of gas boilers or hot water systems. The landlord is responsible to ensure that the heating and hot water systems are in good working order, and an annual service is carried out.