From an investor’s perspective, accepting the impending changes to EPC rules as a key part of a successful buy-to-let investment strategy is essential as we move into a more sustainable era of property development.
Achieving a band C EPC rating is almost certain to become a legal requirement before the end of the decade if not earlier.
Therefore, taking the relevant steps now will save a huge amount of time and money if you’re hoping to get newly rented properties on the market and start generating a passive income.
So, as an investor, what’s the best way to deal with and prepare for these proposed changes?
Well, in the long and short-term, making a smart investment now in a property that isn’t going to require high-cost updates to meet EPC standards is a pretty foolproof strategy.
In many ways, the most straightforward and cost-effective way to do this is by investing in an off-plan or new-build development located in an area with strong rental yields and a broad tenant base.
Here are a couple of examples of upcoming developments that will meet the proposed EPC for landlords regulations and make for high-earning and cost-effective new tenancies
Energy Efficient Investment Opportunities
Element – The Quarter
Currently under construction in Liverpool’s highly popular Knowledge Quarter, this groundbreaking project is part of an ambitious eco-driven brand of developments designed to provide a superior residential experience by harnessing sustainable technologies.
The first in a collection of developments to be located across key UK cities, Liverpool’s Element – The Quarter is set to transform the idea of central city living.
With the overarching goal of all Element properties to be as close to carbon neutrality as possible, the project’s award-winning developers will incorporate a plethora of energy-efficient facilities to ensure the cost-effective and eco-friendly running of each property.
Eco-Features Included:
- Rainwater Recycling
- PV Array Solar Panel
- Shower Save System
- Energy-Efficient LED Lighting
- Air Source Heat Pump
- Heat Recovery System
Due to these innovative eco-aspects, every Element property will have a low service charge, high rental returns and importantly, will meet the new EPC for landlords regulations proposed by the government.
Central Park
Located in the heart of one of the UK’s most popular residential districts, Liverpool’s Central Park development will be another incredible addition to the expanding buy to let market of the North West and is sure to attract an abundance of new tenants.
Comprising 174 high-quality apartments and a range of excellent onsite facilities, residents of Central Park will enjoy a premium living experience that prioritises tenant wellbeing.
Importantly, the building will also be powered by a range of eco-features that will again reduce costs for tenants and investors while assuring that the minimum EPC rating for rental properties is achieved.
Eco-Features Included:
- Solar Panels
- Electric Car Charging
- Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery
- LED Lighting with Sensors
- Air Source Heat Pumps
- Intelligent Leak Detection System
Where is the Market Heading?
These are just a couple of the developments that symbolise what the buy-to-let property market will begin to look like over the coming years.
In terms of the new EPC regulations 2023, residential builds are already starting to incorporate efficient, energy-saving technologies into their plans, highlighting how seriously developers are taking these new rules.
In short, sustainability simply has to be a key focus of the entire property development industry as the damaging impacts of climate change become increasingly clear.
For landlords of privately rented properties, having a valid EPC is a legal requirement if they want to continue making a rental income, so now is the time to consider the latest regulations and take the appropriate steps to secure the future of your rental property.
To find out more about our UK investment opportunities and their eco-friendly benefits, get in touch today or browse our latest properties.