The Mortgage Works has partnered with retrofit specialist Eco Approach to provide free energy efficiency assessments for landlords as the sector prepares for proposed minimum EPC requirements from 2030.
Eco Approach has been selected as the retrofit partner for a new pilot scheme designed to help landlords understand and prepare for upcoming energy efficiency standards in the private rented sector.
Under the initiative, The Mortgage Works will fund 1,000 free property assessments for eligible mortgage customers. The assessments, delivered by Eco Approach, will identify recommended improvements, provide estimated costs, outline any available exemptions and offer a route towards completing retrofit works.
The scheme comes as landlords face increasing pressure to improve the energy performance of rental properties ahead of the proposed requirement for all privately rented homes in England and Wales to achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C from 1 October 2030.
Research from The Mortgage Works suggests awareness of the changes remains limited. According to its findings, 67% of landlords are unaware of the EPC target, while 73% are unfamiliar with the proposed implementation timetable. A further 63% said they did not know how much compliance might cost.
Alongside the assessments, landlords will be able to access The Mortgage Works’ Energy Efficiency Further Advance products, which offer discounted borrowing rates on loans of up to £15,000 to fund eligible improvements.
Lee Rix, managing director of Eco Approach, said: “We are proud to be working with this important initiative, helping landlords understand the improvements needed across their properties and giving them a clear, practical route to action.
“Combining discounted lending products with our retrofit expertise means landlords can rest assured that high-quality installations, underwritten by insurance-backed guarantees, will assure compliance with the new legislation.
“Our resident-first approach is designed to make the journey smooth and informed for landlords and tenants alike, supporting better property performance and homes that are warmer, healthier and more affordable to run.”
Dan Clinton, head of buy-to-let at The Mortgage Works, added: “We know many landlords are still grappling with the upcoming Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, and our new assessment with Eco Approach gives landlords clear insight into what is needed to meet their obligations.
“By having the free property assessments with Eco Approach, along with The Mortgage Works’ discounted Energy Efficiency Further Advance products, we aim to remove the uncertainty and some of the cost barriers.
“Improving energy efficiency isn’t just about meeting future standards; it can also enhance property values, boost rental yields and create more comfortable homes with lower energy bills for tenants. We’re committed to helping our landlord customers act now so they’re better prepared for the changes ahead.”
The pilot will be used to assess landlord demand and engagement, with the potential for the assessment and retrofit service to be expanded more widely in the future.
