EPC in Croydon

Since April 2020, all privately rented domestic properties in England and Wales must have an EPC rating of at least E before a landlord can grant a new tenancy or renew an existing one. There are limited exemptions, such as where all cost-effective improvements have already been made (the 'all improvements made' exemption) or where the cost of improvements exceeds the cap. Exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register and last for five years.

The main factors are wall insulation, loft insulation, floor insulation, window glazing type, boiler efficiency and heating controls, hot water system, lighting, and any renewable energy sources such as solar panels. The age and construction type of the building set the baseline, while upgrades to insulation and heating are the most effective ways to improve the score.

The most cost-effective measures are usually loft insulation (can improve the rating by up to 10 points), cavity wall insulation, upgrading to a condensing boiler with a programmer and room thermostat, switching to LED lighting, and draught-proofing. For properties with solid walls, external or internal wall insulation gives the biggest single improvement but is more expensive. The EPC report itself lists recommended measures with estimated costs and savings.

Croydon Council has been particularly active in HMO licensing enforcement and has an Additional Licensing scheme covering parts of the borough. Landlords operating HMOs in Croydon should expect scrutiny on fire alarm standards and fire risk assessments as a condition of their licence. An EPC of at least rating E is part of the documentation the council expects to see on inspection.

In Croydon, the highest demand for EPC comes from CR0 (central Croydon/Thornton Heath), CR7 (Thornton Heath), South Norwood — areas with the largest concentration of HMOs and converted Victorian terraces. HMOs and converted Victorian terraces typically start with D or E ratings — loft and cavity insulation are the quickest paths to a C.