CPS Homes

What funding is available to landlords in Wales for energy efficiency improvements?

We recently provided an update on the Bill that proposes properties with a new tenancy starting have an EPC rating of at least Band C from 31st December 2025, and properties with an existing tenancy meet at least Band C from 31st December 2028.

Currently, landlords are only required to spend up to £3,500 on energy efficiency upgrades in a bid to meet the existing minimum (Band E), but it's been suggested that this will be raised to £10,000 if/when the minimum changes to Band C.

It's prompted many landlords to question what funding, if any, is available to them for the required improvements.

Welsh Government raise hopes of new energy cash for landlords


Welsh Government recently acknowledged the need for landlords to access financial support in light of the proposal, stating that “if the UK Government introduces a requirement to meet EPC C and does not provide financial support, there could be a need to look at funding grants and/or loans to support improvements”. This is a step in the right direction and we eagerly await the funding options they put forward to help landlords get their properties up to the required standards.

Financial support currently available to landlords in Wales

Whilst we don’t know the full extent of the legislative changes yet, we’d always advise landlords to have half an eye on the energy efficient improvements they can make. There are a number of existing financial support schemes available to help landlords cover the cost of these upgrades:
  • The Boiler Upgrade Scheme: This scheme provides grants of up to £5,000 for the installation of low carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps.
  • VAT Relief on Energy Saving Materials: Until 31 March 2027, zero-rate VAT will apply to the installation of certain energy saving materials in residential properties.
  • A Green Deal Loan: This loan can be put towards a variety of improvements, such as insulation, heating, draught-proofing, double glazing, or renewable energy generation.
  • Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Grants: If you have any qualifying contract-holders from low-income and vulnerable households, they may be able to access an ECO grant to support energy efficiency improvements.
  • Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): If your properties already have renewable energy, the SEG pays customers for renewable electricity they've generated and put into the grid.
  • Great British Insulation Scheme: This scheme provides funding for the installation of insulation in homes across the country.

09 August 2023

The information contained within this article was correct at the date of publishing and is not guaranteed to remain correct in the present day.

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