Helping Suffolk Landlords Stay Ahead – Retrofit Support for a Changing Rental Landscape

With the Renters’ Rights Bill expected to become law later this year, Daniel Hare from Warmpro looks at how landlords across Suffolk are under increasing pressure to improve the energy performance.

At WarmPro Insulation Specialists Ltd, we understand the practical and financial challenges landlords face. Whether you manage a single property or a large portfolio, we can help you meet legal requirements, access funding and improve the quality, comfort and value of your homes.

We’re proud to sponsor the 2025 Safe Suffolk Renters Landlord Conference and to be a trusted delivery partner working alongside both East and West Suffolk Councils. We’re currently mobilising delivery under the new Warm Homes Local.

Grant (WHLG) and previously served as principal contractor across Suffolk under the Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2 (HUG2).

WarmPro is a PAS 2030:2023 and TrustMark- accredited contractor. We deliver insulation upgrades in-house, including cavity wall insulation, external wall insulation, loft insulation, room-in-roof insulation, and draught proofing. For ventilation, solar PV, battery storage and air source heat pumps, we work with trusted Suffolk-based MCS-certified partners to ensure full compliance and quality.

MEES already requires all privately rented homes to meet at least an EPC Band E. Government proposal would raise this minimum to EPC Band C for new tenancies by 2028 and all tenancies by 2030. While not yet law, most councils, including those in Suffolk are already preparing for enforcement. Delaying action risks fines of up to £5,000 per property, difficulties re-letting or refinancing, and increasing pressure from tenants demanding warmer, more affordable homes.

Fortunately, three major government-backed schemes are currently available to support landlords: WHLG, ECO4, and GBIS. WarmPro delivers under all three and can help determine which is most suitable for your property.

Under WHLG, landlords can access significant funding to improve EPC performance. One property per landlord can usually be upgraded completely FREE, including works such as insulation, solar PV, or a heat pump. Additional homes can be improved with a 50% landlord contribution. To qualify, the property must have an EPC of D or below and the tenant must meet eligibility criteria. This is typically households receiving means-tested benefits, on low incomes, or considered vulnerable due to health or housing need. Both on-gas and off-gas homes will qualify.

WarmPro manage the full process in partnership with the Warm Homes Healthy People team at East Suffolk, from assisting with eligibility checks through to installation and handover.

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) provides fully funded upgrades for homes with tenants in fuel poverty or receiving qualifying benefits. Eligibility can be met through benefit status or under ECO4 Flex rules approved by the local authority, which consider income, health, and housing vulnerability. ECO4 supports long-term improvements and requires measurable EPC uplift. Most measures are fully funded, but landlords must consent and support access.

The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) supports simpler measures like loft or cavity wall insulation. GBIS has broader eligibility and can support households in Council Tax bands A–D with EPC ratings of D or below, even if not on benefits. A low income group is also eligible for deeper support. For landlords, GBIS typically funds 70–80% of works, with a small top-up contribution often required. It’s a fast, cost-effective route to achieving MEES compliance.

Together, these schemes offer a limited-time opportunity to access significant funding, reduce tenant energy bills, improve comfort in the home, and protect asset value. Acting now helps landlords avoid future regulatory pressure, rising upgrade costs, and tighter compliance windows.

WarmPro works directly with landlords and tenants to deliver these measures with minimal disruption. Our Retrofit Manager and Resident Liaison Officer coordinate access, communications, and quality assurance. All works are backed by TrustMark

and appropriate insurance. We know many landlords aren’t sure where to begin. That’s why we offer a FREE desktop review of your property’s EPC and funding eligibility. This helps identify viable properties and funding routes before any commitment. For portfolio landlords, we can prioritise works, phase delivery, and structure contributions to maximise grant value.

We’ve already helped landlords across Suffolk move homes from Band E or D to Band C often at zero cost. The result: compliant, energy-efficient homes, happier tenants, and long-term investment protection.

WarmPro is also preparing to launch a new solution for landlords with electric-only homes, especially in flats, park homes and off-gas properties. In partnership with one of Europe’s largest demand response providers, we will soon offer eligible households free smart devices that reduce electricity use during peak times. While this technology is not currently recognised in EPC calculations, it can cut electricity bills by up to 15% per year. It’s quick to install, non-invasive, and entirely free for both landlord and tenant. This is an ideal solution for PRS landlords, housing associations, student accommodation providers, and park home landlords where traditional retrofit options may be more limited.

To find out more about WHLG, ECO4, GBIS or the upcoming demand response solution, we encourage landlords and property managers to contact us today. Our team can assess eligibility, review EPCs and recommend the best route for funded improvements.

Call us on: 020 3417 3505, Email us at: warmproinsulation@gmail.com or visit warmproinsulation.co.uk to get started.

WarmPro will also be exhibiting at the Safe Suffolk Renters Landlord Conference on Tuesday 21st October at the University & Professional Development Centre in Bury St Edmunds — a great opportunity to meet us in person and explore what’s possible for your portfolio.

WarmPro is here to help you stay ahead of regulation, reduce risk, and deliver warmer, more energy-efficient homes across Suffolk.

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