How My Ambition Properties are getting ahead of the EPC changes

How My Ambition Properties are getting ahead of the EPC changes

EPC explained and the steps we are taking to beat the change

As landlords, we must reach a certain EPC score on our properties to rent them. But have you heard the news? The UK government plans to introduce significant changes to the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations soon.

The new rules are part of the UK's efforts to reduce carbon emissions and improve the energy efficiency of buildings. These changes will have a significant impact on landlords with rental properties. It's essential to be aware of what's coming and how it will affect both landlords and tenants.

How My Ambition Properties are getting ahead of the EPC changes

What is an EPC?

Before we get into the changes coming, we will outline what an EPC is
An EPC is a certificate that rates the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The certificate includes information about the property’s energy use and carbon dioxide emissions, as well as recommendations for how to improve its energy efficiency.

The EPC is a legal requirement for all properties that are being sold or rented in the UK. Landlords are responsible for ensuring that their rental properties have a valid EPC, and they must provide a copy of the certificate to their tenants.

You can search for an EPC for a property via the gov.uk website. This gives you the score for any house.

What are the proposed changes?

The UK government is planning to introduce two major changes to the EPC regulations in the near future:

1. Minimum EPC rating of C for rental properties: Currently, a minimum EPC rating of E is required for rental properties. However, the government plans to introduce a minimum EPC rating of C for all rental properties starting in 2028. This means landlords will no longer be able to rent out properties with a lower EPC rating.

  1. Minimum EPC rating of C for rental properties: Currently, a minimum EPC rating of E is required for rental properties. However, the government plans to introduce a minimum EPC rating of C for all rental properties starting in 2028. This means landlords will no longer be able to rent out properties with a lower EPC rating.

  2. Improving EPC accuracy: The government is also planning to improve the accuracy of EPCs by introducing new data sources and methodologies. This will mean that EPCs will provide more accurate information about a property’s energy efficiency, which will help landlords and tenants make more informed decisions about energy use and cost.

How will this affect landlords with rental properties?

The new EPC regulations will significantly impact landlords with rental properties. Here are some of the key ways in which they may be affected:
  1. Financial implications: Landlords will need to make improvements to their properties to meet the minimum EPC rating of C. This could involve making significant investments in energy-efficient measures such as insulation, double glazing, and more efficient heating systems. Landlords may also face higher costs in obtaining more accurate EPCs.

  2. Rental market changes: Landlords will no longer be able to rent out properties with an EPC rating below C. This means that some properties may become unrentable, and landlords may need to make significant investments to improve their property’s energy efficiency. This could lead to changes in the rental market, with more demand for energy-efficient properties. Alternatively, some landlords may be forced to sell the property, which could create a possible shortage in overall rentable properties.

  3. Compliance: Landlords will need to ensure that their rental properties meet the new EPC regulations. Failure to comply could result in fines and other penalties.

  4. Tenant demand: Tenants are increasingly looking for energy-efficient properties, and the new EPC regulations are likely to increase demand for such properties. Landlords who invest in energy-efficient measures may be able to attract higher-quality tenants and command higher rents.

How Is An EPC Measured?

An EPC rating is based on an assessment of the property’s energy performance, carried out by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor or Non-Domestic Energy Assessor for commercial space.

The assessment takes into account various factors such as the property’s insulation, heating system, lighting, and ventilation, as well as the construction of the building itself. The assessor will also consider any renewable energy sources installed in the property, such as solar panels.

After completing the assessment, the assessor will produce a report detailing the energy performance of the property and assign it an energy efficiency rating. The report will also provide recommendations for improving the property’s energy efficiency, such as installing loft insulation or upgrading the heating system.

This score is made up of different elements within the property. Each component is awarded points, like double glazing, loft insulation, and wall insulation. These points are added up to correspond to the level.

To reach an EPC of “C”, a property must have between 69 and 80 points on the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP). So landlords could find themselves weighing up the costs and benefits of each property improvement to decide whether to upgrade roof insulation or install double-glazing windows and bump their points above 69.

How My Ambition Properties Are Working With The EPC Change

The team at My Ambition Properties is getting ahead of the game and working proactively. We are taking action to get all properties to an EPC C level ahead of the possible rollout of the government bill.

We are working alongside an EPC assessor to ensure the correct level and/or actions are being taken in all our property upgrades. One of the many ways we are improving energy efficiency in our buildings is by upgrading to modern combi boilers across our properties.

Government Schemes To Help Landlords

There are several schemes and initiatives run by the UK government to help landlords improve the energy efficiency of their rental properties and make them EPC compliant.
Here are a few examples:
  1. The Green Homes Grant: This is a government scheme that provides vouchers for homeowners and landlords to install energy-efficient improvements in their homes, such as insulation, double glazing, and heating upgrades. The scheme closed to new applications on 31 March 2022.

  2. The Energy Company Obligation (ECO): This is a scheme funded by the UK’s largest energy suppliers that provides funding for energy-efficient improvements to homes and rental properties. ECO can cover the total cost of measures like insulation, heating upgrades, and window replacements.

  3. The Landlord’s Energy Saving Allowance (LESA): This is a tax allowance that landlords can claim for certain energy-efficient improvements made to their rental properties. The allowance is worth up to £1,500 per property per year and covers measures like loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and draught-proofing.

  4. The Private Rented Sector (PRS) Exemptions Register: Landlords of properties that do not meet the minimum EPC rating requirements can register for an exemption if they can demonstrate that they have taken all cost-effective measures to improve the property’s energy efficiency. However, PRS may well change once new EPC rules are introduced.
These are just a few examples of the schemes and initiatives available to landlords in the UK to help them improve the energy efficiency of their rental properties and make them EPC compliant.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the new EPC regulations are a significant development for landlords with rental properties in the UK. While they will require landlords to make investments in energy-efficient measures, they also offer opportunities to attract higher-quality tenants and command higher rents.
It’s important to be aware of these changes and take steps to ensure that their properties comply with the new regulations. Here at MAP, we believe having a proactive approach to these changes is the best way to go. We strive to lead the way and provide energy-efficient properties to meet the needs of our environmentally conscious tenants.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is designed for information purposes and subject to change dependant on government announcements.  Requirements may vary from one country to another and over a period of time. Advice regarding relevant changes should be sought by a registered professional. My Ambition Properties Limited accepts no liability for any loss or damage as a result of the information contained within this article.

The Benefits Of Upgrading To A Modern Combi Boiler

The Benefits Of Upgrading To A Modern Combi Boiler

Are you tired of your old boiler breaking down? Or is your boiler struggling to keep up with the demands of your household? Whatever your reasons, upgrading to a modern combi boiler can be a game-changer for your home's heating and hot water needs.

Don’t get lost or overwhelmed by jargon and stats. We have outlined all you need to know about modern combi boilers, the benefits of upgrading and why it may be the best investment you can make for your home.

What is a combi boiler?

A combi boiler, short for combination boiler, is a compact and highly efficient unit that provides heating and hot water to your home.

Unlike traditional boilers that require a separate hot water cylinder and cold water storage tank, a combi boiler takes its water supply directly from the mains. This means that it can provide hot water on demand without needing additional storage space or waiting for the water to heat up.

 

There are many perks of upgrading to a combi boiler which we have outlined below. The two main takeaways are the reduction in tenant heating bills and overall carbon emissions.

8 Benefits Of Upgrading To A Modern Combi Boiler

Improved energy efficiency

One of the most significant benefits of upgrading to a modern combi boiler is improved energy efficiency. Modern combi boilers are highly efficient and can convert up to 90% of their fuel into heat, making them much more efficient than traditional boilers.
Because of the improved efficiency, you can save money on your energy bills while also reducing your carbon footprint.

Faster hot water delivery

With a combi boiler, you no longer have to wait for your hot water to heat up. The unit heats the water on demand, meaning you can have hot water whenever needed.

Hot water on demand has obvious perks and is particularly useful for large families or multiple bathrooms. It ensures that everyone can have hot water without having to wait their turn.

More space



Traditional boilers require a separate hot water cylinder and cold water storage tank, which can take up a lot of space in your home. Combi boilers free up this space as they do not require any additional storage.

The compact size is especially useful in smaller homes or flats where space is at a premium.

Lower maintenance costs



Combi boilers require less maintenance than traditional boilers. This is because they have fewer moving parts and don’t require a separate hot water cylinder or cold water storage tank.

Having less parts means fewer components can break down. Therefore, this will save you money on maintenance and repair costs over time.

Improved water pressure



One of the most noticeable benefits of upgrading to a combi boiler is improved water pressure. With a traditional boiler, the water pressure can be affected by the height of the water storage tank, which can result in low water pressure.

With a combi boiler, the water pressure is always high as it takes its water supply directly from the mains.

Greater control



Modern combi boilers offer advanced control systems that allow you to control your heating and hot water remotely. This means that the heating can be set to come on before you get home, or the temperatures of the hot water can be adjusted from a smartphone.

This level of control can assist in saving money on energy bills by only using heating and hot water when needed.

Quieter operation



Combi boilers are much quieter than traditional boilers. This is because they don’t have a separate pump or motor. Homeowners and tenants can enjoy a peaceful home without the constant noise of a boiler running.

More environmentally friendly



With climate at the forefront of many people’s minds, modern combi boilers are designed to be more environmentally friendly than traditional boilers.

They use less fuel to heat a home, which means that they produce fewer emissions. This can help to reduce carbon footprints and make a property more eco-friendly.

EPC Ratings and Combi Boilers



EPC refers to the Energy Performance Certificate issued by the government when a property is built, sold, or rented. An EPC contains,

  • information about a property’s energy use and typical energy costs.
  • recommendations about how to reduce energy use and save money.


They give a property an energy efficiency rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Energy efficiency is determined by the amount of energy used per m² and the level of carbon dioxide emissions per year. An EPC is valid for ten years.

Combi boilers can have a huge impact on a property’s EPC due to their energy efficiency.

My Ambition properties is preparing for the EPC ratings



Combi boilers come with a whole list of benefits. This is why all My Ambition Properties are periodically upgrading to modern combi boilers with an ErP (Energy Related Products Directive) boiler rating of ‘A’ and above.

We are also fitting a Magnetic System Filter alongside combi boilers. This is for the ongoing protection of the boiler and heating systems.

ErP Ratings and Combi Boilers



ErP is the Energy Related Products Directive introduced in 2009 by the European Union. This rating is in place to increase the transparency between manufacturers and consumers, encouraging everyone to choose the more environmentally friendly options.

The ErP labelling system applies to domestic and commercial heating products, including combi boilers.

Boilers must meet specific design requirements to meet energy efficiency standards before the sale is allowed. All boilers must display the rating clearly in labelling and product information so consumers can make informed decisions when upgrading. Wrapping Up Upgrading to a modern combi boiler can offer a range of benefits to a home, from improved energy efficiency and faster hot water delivery to more space and lower maintenance costs.

If you’re considering upgrading your old boiler, a combi boiler is a top consideration. If you are interested in property investing and are passionate about safety, contact us and find out more about investing.

Disclaimer: Professional advice should be sought with purchasing a new boiler. This article does not constitute advice and My Ambition Properties Limited is not liable for the contents

of this article.

Why we install fire rated loft hatches

Why we install fire rated loft hatches

We take safety very seriously when it comes to renovating our properties, which is why we install the best in terms of fire and co2 detection. Many of our properties also have consumer units that surpass existing British Standards.

We also go a little further by installing fire rated loft hatches into every property we renovate – why? Because we believe that all of our properties should offer the very best in protective and preventative measures, but also the very best in comfort for the families who live in them. This approach means that our finished properties are highly sought after by tenants and provide a bankable ROI for our investors.

Find out more about investing with My Ambition Property

What are fire rated loft hatches?

Currently, there are no regulations in the UK surrounding the mandatory installation of fire rated loft hatches in buy to let properties.  Instead, the regulations for loft hatches in two storey dwellings set out the minimum standards for insulation properties (Part L) to maintain acceptable U values, and to prevent moist air entering the roof void.

Like a standard loft hatch, a fire rated loft hatch provides safe and easy access to the loft area, but with the added benefit of either 30 or 60 minutes protection from the spread of fire. In addition they are insulated and air tight, so there is no loss of heat from the property into the roof void – helping to keep energy bills down for our tenants.

Why is safety important to My Ambition Properties?

We put safety at the forefront of everything we do because we want our tenants to be able to live in our properties knowing that they have the best prevention and detection available – keeping them and their families as safe as possible.
Our model of property investment means that we take below market value properties in a targeted area and refurbish them to a high standard. Housing stock in our target area of South Wales tends to be old terraced houses where roof voids may be shared with neighbouring properties. This can present a small risk that fire may spread from a neighbouring property via the loft, especially if existing firebreaks are not robust, but out of our control of maintaining.
By installing fire rated loft hatches we are slowing down the spread of fire and providing a greater level of safety to our tenants and neighbours.

Invest in property the My Ambition Properties way

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is designed for illustrative purposes. Health and Safety as well as Building Regulations will vary from one country to another and over a period of time. Advice regarding relevant building regulations and health & safety standards should be sought by a registered professional. My Ambition Properties Limited accepts no liability for any loss, damage or injury to persons or property as a result of the information contained within this article.
For more information about investing in property with My Ambition Properties get in touch 0333 200 2988 or email   christian@my-ambition.co.uk.
Take a look at our recent investments

Investing in property: does it still make financial sense?

Investing in property: does it still make financial sense?

Property has been a popular investment for many years, yielding quick and high returns. Whilst the landscape had altered over recent years investing in property can still make financial sense. Some models of investing will provide quicker financial benefits than others. You may be surprised to learn that you can make a very healthy financial return from property investing without having to get your hands dirty.
Managing your own portfolio as a property investor can be a headache, making decisions about purchasing a property researching the area, managing your refurb teams and deciding what to do with your completed project can be quite an intricate and time consuming process. What may people don’t realise is that there is a way you can invest in property without having to take ownership of a building – so how can you do that?

Via indirect property investing.

What is indirect property investing?

Indirect property investing is investing in a property without buying a property – the whole process is managed by a professional developer and as the investor you get a return on your investment at set stages in the project.
With the My Ambition Properties model each project is funded by a handful of investors and the purchasing process and refurbishment is managed by us. You then get a monthly interest payment on your investment for 12 months after which you can take out your capital investment or reinvest into the next project.

'Christian is a pleasure to deal with. He is always happy to answer any questions I have regarding his business and my investment. Great return on my investment and more importantly prompt and timely payments are received.'

Clinton T

Property investment UK – the traditional method

Traditionally property investment models relied on buying at a low price, renovating and either selling on at a profit or renting it out.
It is often seen as the easiest investment structure to engage with; the process of identifying a property and purchasing it alone, funded either by existing or borrowed capital, then either selling it to make a one-time return on investment, or renting it out for a monthly income.
Whilst these are still viable options, we’re unlikely to see anything like the property price boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Indeed, prices have increased steadily since then, but generally landlords are less likely to benefit from soaring investment growth.
Higher tax bills, fewer benefits to landlords and rising maintenance costs mean that buy-to-let for many is less attractive that it once was. There’s also the impact of the pandemic, where some landlords lost rental income from tenants who lost their jobs.

Indirect property investments gives you a quicker return

This more modern approach to property investing is ideal for anyone looking to invest in property without having the risk of fluctuating price increases, rogue tenants or an uncertain housing market. With My Ambition Properties you will see better return on investment than on savings rates currently offered by the banks.
My Ambition Properties makes property investment simple, with investments from as little as £2,000 – you will get an annual return of 8%. Typically an investment period starts at 12 months, and at the end of this term you can choose to either reinvest your money into a new project or you can walk away. There is no catch.
See a financial illustration of an investment
Our approach to property investment is hassle free for our investors, unlike direct investing; you’re hands off, there’s no stressful purchase process, no involvement with builders and trades people or decisions about options to re-sell or rent.
Our broad knowledge of investment and development in the UK property market means we can have accurate and timely insight to the best investment opportunities. Our preferred investment area is South Wales where we have completed a number of projects to very high standards. We have strong relationships with property agents and developers in the South Wales area, meaning that we can access off market information and ensure purchases are made at the best prices.

“Delighted, satisfied & excited about being an investor in My Ambition properties.   It’s the easiest and quickest decision I ever made to invest.

3 reasons

1. A 1000 percent better return than my savings account with my capital totally secure.

2. Potential for further growth, expansion, future opportunities to invest

3. The most important one… Christian himself, who I’ve known personally for 25 years is dynamic, straightforward and the most trustworthy person I know.”

Barry H
Our experienced team also work closely together to undertake a full, high quality refurbishment in order to command a high rental yield. This means that we offer our investors an annual return of 8%, which far outperforms a variety of consumer investments.

How to start investing in property today.

If you’ve been mulling over the best ways to invest in property but are not sure where to start, have only a little money to invest, or want to avoid the stress of managing a project, then the My Ambition Properties model is the ideal option for you.
On choosing to invest with My Ambition Properties, we will work swiftly to secure the next property investment. We operate a transparent and open process, ensuring you are kept regularly updated on progress. We maintain the highest standards <link to at all stages and achieve using our trusted team of highly skilled solicitors, RICS surveyors and builders.

You can choose your level of involvement, many investors choose to be hands off, but equally you
can visit our projects on site or interact virtually.

We’d be pleased to have a no-obligation chat, virtual or otherwise, where we can provide further
information and look to answer any questions you may have, please contact us here.