Grants for Landlords: Funding for EPC Improvements

To reduce carbon emissions and improve the housing quality, the government has proposed that all 5.6 million privately rented properties have to achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C or above by 2030 (new tenancies by 2028). Currently, around 3.6 million rented properties (roughly 60%) are rated D or below. This represents a significant challenge for landlords, many of whom will need to plan and implement energy efficiency upgrades to remain compliant and legally continue to let their properties.

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Recognising the scale of this national retrofit challenge, a range of government-backed grants and funding schemes are now available to assist landlords with the cost of improvements.

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What Is a Home Energy Efficiency Grant?

Home energy efficiency grants are non-repayable funds provided by the government or local authorities to support the installation of energy-saving measures. These can partially or fully cover the cost of upgrades such as insulation, low-carbon heating systems, and renewable energy technologies.

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In the context of EPC improvements, grants aim to reduce energy consumption, cut carbon emissions, and help landlords meet the new minimum standards set by government regulations.

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What Types of Work Do Grants Cover?

Most schemes support a variety of retrofit measures, including:

• Loft, cavity wall, and solid wall insulation

• Replacement of outdated gas or electric boilers

• Installation of air source or ground source heat pumps

• Solar PV or solar thermal panels

• Draught-proofing, double/triple glazing

• Smart heating controls and thermostats

• Ventilation and airtightness improvements

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Each scheme has specific eligibility and may cover individual measures or provide a whole-house retrofit approach.

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Who Is Eligible?

Grant eligibility varies, but commonly includes the following criteria:

• EPC rating: Typically D–G rated properties

• Tenant income: Some schemes require tenants to be on means-tested benefits or earn under £36,000

• Location: Grants may be available only in specific postcodes or local authority areas

• Heating system: Off-gas grid homes are often prioritised

• Council tax band: Certain schemes, like the Great British Insulation Scheme, target homes in bands A–D

 

​Local Authority Involvement

Some schemes, such as the Warm Homes Local Grant, are administered through local authorities. Participation and criteria may vary across regions.

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eco-Landlord: Making the Upgrade Process Simpler

With the scale of upgrades required and the complexity of eligibility criteria, landlords can benefit from the support of eco-Landlord in navigating this transition. 

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eco-Landlord platform is a dedicated service to help landlords:

• Understand your current EPC ratings

• Identify the necessary upgrades

• Discover grants and financing options

• Connect with qualified installers

• Complete and validate improvements with a final EPC assessment​

 

​Landlords can register for eco-Landlord and check grant eligibility for each property now.