The Cosy Homes Oxfordshire team had a fantastic time at the Oxford City Council Landlord and Agent Forum on 6 November. The energy in the room was palpable as landlords and letting agents explored how to prepare their properties for a more energy-efficient future.

We were thrilled by the level of interest in retrofitting and upcoming funding opportunities – our leaflets disappeared quicker than we could have imagined! It’s clear that landlords are keen to tackle rising energy standards while making smart investments in their properties.

One key talking point was the Warm Homes Local Grant, launching in March 2025. This scheme offers landlords a valuable chance to prepare for future regulations, improve EPC ratings, and make properties more appealing to tenants.

Note: The Warm Homes Local Grant is a government-funded scheme for specific eligibility groups. Cosy Homes Oxfordshire is not a grant administrator. Our core service is independent, paid advice for landlords looking to take a whole house approach to retrofit. If you’re looking to invest in future-proofing your property, we can help.

Is your property 2030-ready?

The forum highlighted a growing concern among landlords: preparing for stricter energy efficiency rules. By 2030, all rental properties may need an EPC rating of C or higher to comply with proposed regulations.

While the government is still consulting on these changes, waiting too long could leave you struggling to rent or sell properties that fall short of the standards. Many landlords are already planning ahead to ensure their properties stay compliant, attractive, and valuable.

As one Oxfordshire landlord noted:

“As a responsible landlord, I obviously want to be compliant with the new legislation coming in. I’d encourage all landlords to get a survey as it gives you a huge amount of information about your property and really gives you the opportunity to put a plan in place for the legislation and beyond.”
Christian, Landlord, Littlemore, Oxford

Cosy Homes Oxfordshire offers landlords the tools and advice to meet these challenges head-on, including our Whole House Plan – a detailed roadmap to improve energy efficiency cost-effectively while safeguarding future retrofits.

Why retrofitting is a smart investment

Investing in retrofitting isn’t just about meeting regulations – it’s about future-proofing your properties and protecting your bottom line.

Key benefits include:

• Improved EPC ratings attract more tenants, reduce vacancies, and lower maintenance costs.
• Compliance with future standards avoids potential penalties and restrictions under Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
• Reduced tenant turnover: Lower energy bills and a more comfortable home mean happier, longer-term tenants.
• Enhanced property value: Retrofitting can boost your property’s market appeal and capital value.

“We always want to ensure our properties are as energy efficient as they can be, for the longevity of the property but also to make the houses better for the tenants and for them to have lower bills.”
Connie, Property Manager, Lucy Properties, Jericho, Oxford

Warm Homes Local Grant launching March 2025

The Warm Homes Local Grant, launching in March 2025, is a fantastic opportunity for landlords to make meaningful improvements to their properties.

Key details of the scheme include:

• Available for properties with EPC ratings D–G.
• Open to homes heated with or without gas systems.
• Up to £30,000 available for your first eligible property:
  • £15,000 for energy efficiency improvements.
  • £15,000 for low-carbon heating upgrades.
• 50% funding for subsequent properties.

This is the most generous funding scheme we’ve seen for landlords in years. With these upgrades, you’ll not only meet rising energy standards but also create homes that tenants love – warmer, more comfortable, and less expensive to heat.

What can you do now?

• Talk to your tenants about planned works—they must agree before anything starts.
• Register your interest via the Oxfordshire County Council website: oxfordshire.gov.uk/retrofit.

Other grants and funding opportunities

If you’re keen to start improving your properties now, there are several schemes currently available:

• Home Upgrade Grant (HUG2) – closing soon!
• Energy Company Obligation (ECO) schemes.
• Great British Insulation Scheme
• Connected for Warmth
• Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)

Details of these schemes are available on the Oxfordshire County Council website.

Start planning for 2030 today

Don’t wait for regulations to come into force – taking action now gives you a competitive advantage while protecting your property’s value and ensuring tenant satisfaction.

Cosy Homes Oxfordshire’s Whole House Plan offers a strategic approach to retrofitting, helping you make cost-effective upgrades without compromising future works.

Ready to invest in a smarter, more energy-efficient property?

Unlock your property’s potential with our free Plan Builder advice tool. It It’s designed for landlords and homeowners looking to invest in meaningful improvements with long-term value.