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Categories: epc | government and politics
Amid ongoing anxieties surrounding the government’s upcoming reforms to the PRS, Ben Beadle, chief executive of the NRLA (National Residential Landlords Association), has urged Labour to reconsider their stance on energy performance targets.
Alongside a public statement, Beadle wrote directly to energy minister Miatta Fahnbulleh.
As reported previously, Labour want all private rental properties to reach a grade ‘C’ or higher on their EPCs (Energy Performance Certificate) by 2030.
Ed Miliband’s comments
In a recent BBC Breakfast interview with Ed Miliband, Charlie Stayt cited Ben Beadle’s other recent pleas to the government.
Stayt gave particular emphasis to the issue of tenants having to deal with rent increases as a direct result of Labour’s policies.
Miliband responded:
He would say that, wouldn’t he? … It’s his job to lobby for landlords, but this government is not about lobbying; it’s about doing the right thing for the country.
Miliband then reiterated Labour’s support of tenants, saying that any future rent increases will be for the long-term benefit of all renters. He emphasised that the government is focused on improving the quality of housing, and ensuring that every tenant lives in warm homes without draughts.
Throughout the interview, there was little indication that Miliband or the government he represents will go to bat for the “good” landlords with the same conviction as they do for renters.
A change of tune
Up until recently, the NRLA has been a moderate voice in the political discussion, often showing support to the Labour government.
In past statements, Beadle has showed enthusiasm for the government’s intention to ban Section 21 eviction notices, even though many private landlords are very apprehensive about the effects this will have on their livelihoods.
For private landlords more critical of the government’s practices, the lack of visible protestations from the leading landlord organisation has been an ongoing source of frustration.
However, in his more recent statement, Beadle accused Miliband of making light of a serious situation which is “no laughing matter”.
He elaborated that, as a result of Labour’s targets, landlords would be hit with higher bills of up to £15,000 per property.
Consequently, landlords would be forced to increase rent in order to cover these costs. Either that, or landlords could be pushed out of the sector, reducing renters’ access to quality housing.
Citing the government’s consultation document, Beadle clarified that any property subject to a new tenancy will be expected to get a ‘C’ grade EPC by 2028, while all other rentals will have to follow by the final 2030 deadline.
In practice, this means that the timeframe for landlords to prepare finance and implement the necessary changes is even tighter than previously believed.
Beadle claimed:
To meet this deadline rental homes would need to be retrofitted at a rate of 5,000 per working day, a proposal which, quite frankly, is madness.
Brainstorming solutions
The NRLA are asking that Labour provide “a clear strategy, with a comprehensive package of support across the board and a realistic timetable”.
According to Beadle, they only want open and honest discussion with the government about achieving their goals.
The government are acknowledging the widespread concerns, but it remains to be seen if these concerns will be heeded.
