1. What landlords need to know in 2026
Landlords cannot access HES grants (owner-occupiers only). A separate interest-free loan scheme is available, and the proposed 2028 EPC deadline is approaching.
2. Proposed EPC timeline
2026: EPC validity reduces to 5 years; new ratings introduced.
2028: All new tenancies must meet EPC band C equivalent (proposed).
2033: All existing tenancies must meet the same standard (proposed).
Enforcement via landlord registration and the First-tier Tribunal. These remain proposals but the direction of travel is clear.
2028: All new tenancies must meet EPC band C equivalent (proposed).
2033: All existing tenancies must meet the same standard (proposed).
Enforcement via landlord registration and the First-tier Tribunal. These remain proposals but the direction of travel is clear.
3. HES Private Landlord Loan
- Up to £15,000 per property for energy efficiency
- Up to £38,500 per property for renewables
- Maximum £100,000 interest-free for up to 5 properties
- Above 5 properties: up to £250,000 at 3.5% APR
- MCS / TrustMark installers required
4. Routes to funded upgrades
- Warmer Homes via tenants: if your tenant qualifies, you benefit at no cost
- ECO4 via tenants: if your tenant is on benefits, the supplier funds improvements
- Encourage tenants to contact their energy supplier
5. The financial case for acting now
Interest-free loan plus lower installer prices today versus 2027, when demand will be significantly higher and costs are likely to rise.
6. Upgrades that move you to band C
- Loft insulation first
- Cavity wall insulation
- Heating system upgrade (largest single EPC gain)
- Windows
7. Tax considerations
Section 24 limits mortgage interest relief. Improvement costs are generally deductible or capitalised. Verify with your accountant.
8. Landlord action checklist
- Commission an up-to-date EPC for every property
- Get a costed improvement plan from your assessor
- Confirm landlord registration is current
- Apply to HES for the landlord loan
- Check tenant eligibility for Warmer Homes / ECO4
- Engage only MCS / TrustMark installers
- Commission an updated EPC after works