Mortgage brokers are being urged to take a more active role in helping landlord clients prepare for upcoming energy efficiency reforms following the launch of the government’s £15bn Warm Homes Plan.
The Warm Homes Plan, described as the largest home upgrade programme in British history, will invest £15bn over five years to improve up to five million homes through measures including insulation, heat pumps, batteries and solar panels.
Alongside cutting energy bills and tackling fuel poverty, the plan confirms a clear regulatory direction for the private rented sector.
From 2030, privately rented homes will be required to meet a minimum EPC rating of C, compared with the current requirement of E, with phased implementation expected to begin for new tenancies from around 2028.
SIGNIFICANT WORK
The government has also confirmed reforms to EPC assessment metrics in the second half of 2026, moving towards a multi-metric approach focused on fabric performance, heating efficiency and emissions, and smart readiness.
With around five million privately rented homes in England and Wales – and close to half currently rated EPC D or below – the scale of work required is significant.
A shortage of skilled installers further increases the pressure on landlords to plan early.
eco-Landlord says mortgage brokers are well placed to support landlord clients through this transition by signposting them to specialist EPC upgrade support, without needing to become retrofit experts themselves.
FUNDING GAPS
Where upgrade plans highlight funding gaps or refinancing needs, brokers can step back in to advise on suitable mortgage, further advance or specialist lending options, aligned to affordability, criteria and rates.
The Warm Homes Plan also expands grant funding for measures such as solar panels, batteries and low-income household upgrades, creating a window for landlords to combine grant support with borrowing where required.
Properties that achieve EPC C before the 2026 EPC reforms are expected to benefit from transitional compliance until their existing certificate expires.
TIME TO ACT
Angus Stewart (main picture, inset), CEO of eco-Landlord, said: “The Warm Homes Plan delivers much-needed clarity and momentum for warmer, more efficient homes.
“With EPC metrics evolving in 2026, acting now lets landlords secure compliance under the current system, access rising funding, and avoid future pressures.
“Our free platform simplifies the process, delivering benefits for tenants, landlords, and the environment alike.”
