The government announced details of their new Warm Homes Plan (opens in a new window) in January 2026, which has significant implications for private landlords in England and Wales.
Not only will rental properties need to have an EPC C or a valid exemption from 1 October 2030, but the existing methodology used to measure energy performance will switch from the cost-based Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) to the Home Energy Model (HEM) on 1 October 2029. The HEM measures energy efficiency in a fundamentally different way.
While the details of the Home Energy Model are subject to an ongoing consultation, which closes on 18 March 2026, the broad principles are clear. Landlords need to understand what is being proposed so they can make informed decisions and start planning.
Created in collaboration with Suzanne Smith, founder of The Independent Landlord (opens in a new window), this guide explains the government’s plans to overhaul the rules about energy efficiency and what landlords can do to get ready.
Download the EPC guide