Window of opportunity: EPC overhaul could transform social housing

As the government announces groundbreaking plans to boost minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties by 2030, Howard Trotter, Business Manager at leading uPVC window and door manufacturer and supplier Shelforce, discusses the implications for housing associations and their tenants.

The government’s recent announcement of plans to transform living standards through enhanced energy efficiency requirements marks a pivotal moment for the housing sector. With over 1 million households potentially being lifted out of fuel poverty, this initiative represents the most significant boost to home energy standards in recent years.

As someone who has worked extensively with housing associations and local authorities, I can say unequivocally that this move is excellent news for tenants.

The harsh reality of cold, draughty homes and expensive energy bills has been a burden for far too many families. Currently, private rented homes can be rented out if they meet Energy Performance Certificate E, while social rented homes have no minimum energy efficiency standard at all.  These new proposals to the standards, which will require both private and social rented homes to achieve EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) C or equivalent by 2030 and will be subject to consultation later this year, will ensure homes are warmer, more comfortable, and significantly more cost-effective to heat.

However, the benefits extend far beyond creating warmer homes and energy savings. When housing providers upgrade their properties to meet these new standards, tenants will also enjoy enhanced security and improved ventilation. It’s not just about comfort – it’s about dignity. Tenants have the right to expect their homes to be as warm and efficient as possible.

For housing associations and local authorities, these new requirements underscore the critical importance of specifying the right windows and doors for any social housing project when seeking to improve thermal performance. Choosing energy-efficient windows is not merely a box-ticking exercise; it’s a decision that can have long-lasting impacts on tenant comfort, energy costs, and overall building performance.

This is where partnering with an experienced manufacturer and supplier becomes invaluable. At Shelforce, we have decades of experience working alongside housing associations and local authorities, and we understand the requirements of social housing projects.

Our extensive knowledge allows us to provide in-depth advice on the best window types and specifications for specific project requirements, ensuring all our windows not only meet but exceed current building regulations and energy efficiency standards.

The government’s commitment to supporting these improvements with the continuation of the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund will further support social housing providers and tenants. However, the key to success for housing associations in meeting these challenges with new windows and doors lies in building strong partnerships between manufacturers, housing associations, and local authorities.

We must not let tenants suffer from inefficient windows and high energy bills any longer. With the right approach and the right partners, energy-efficient windows and doors can transform properties and provide lasting benefits for years
to come.

Housing associations play a pivotal role within local communities. By working with experienced manufacturers who understand the unique challenges and requirements of social housing, they can ensure their properties not only meet the new standards but set new benchmarks for energy efficiency and tenant comfort.

Shelforce manufacture and supply of uPVC windows, doors, and fire doors to housing associations and local authority building projects and, with 75% of its 36-strong workforce having a physical or mental disability, received the King’s Award for Enterprise in Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility) last year. For more information, telephone Shelforce on 0121 603 5262 or visit www.shelforce.com.      

Images © Shelforce