"The idea that millions of homes can be retrofitted in less than two years is detached from all reality, not least given the chronic shortage of tradespeople the sector needs to get the work done"
- Ben Beadle - NRLA
Government plans to raise energy efficiency standards in private rented housing are facing criticism from the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), which warns the proposed timeline is unrealistic.
The proposals under consultation would require all privately rented homes to achieve an energy efficiency rating of at least C. If implemented as outlined, the policy would apply to all new tenancies by 2028 and all existing tenancies by 2030, with final confirmation expected in late 2026.
This timeline could leave landlords with under two years to upgrade around 2.5 million homes that currently fall below the standard.
The NRLA supports efforts to improve energy efficiency, but argues that the government’s proposed deadlines ignore on-the-ground constraints, most notably, a growing shortage of qualified tradespeople. The group points to projections from Kingfisher, owner of Screwfix and B&Q, which forecast a shortfall of 250,000 skilled workers in the UK by 2030.
In addition, concerns remain about the lack of clear funding mechanisms. Ministers have yet to outline how landlords will be expected to cover the cost of upgrades, and have not acted on recommendations from the Committee on Fuel Poverty, which has called for a tailored financial support package for the sector.
In its official consultation response, the NRLA proposes a phased implementation plan:
By 2030, landlords would meet primary standards focused on building fabric, such as insulation.
By 2036, they would comply with secondary measures, including efficient heating systems and smart meter installation.
“We want all private rented properties to be as energy efficient as possible. However, tenants are being sold a pup with timelines that are hopelessly unrealistic," said NRLA chief executive Ben Beadle. "The idea that millions of homes can be retrofitted in less than two years is detached from all reality, not least given the chronic shortage of tradespeople the sector needs to get the work done.
"Noble ambitions mean little without practical and realistic policy to match.”
