Posted: 13th October 2025
EPC Requirements for Landlords:
If you're a landlord in England or Wales, understanding your legal responsibilities around Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) is vital. An EPC provides an energy efficiency rating for a property, ranging from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), and includes recommendations for improving performance.
EPCs are a legal requirement for landlords and must be provided to prospective tenants before the tenancy begins. But beyond just ticking a box, EPCs are becoming increasingly important as tenants demand lower energy bills and the government pushes for Net Zero emissions by 2050.
In this article, we’ll cover:
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The current EPC rules
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What happens if you don’t comply
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Upcoming changes
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Why tenants care
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How you can improve your property’s EPC rating
What Are the Current EPC Requirements for Landlords?
Domestic (Residential) Properties
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You must have a valid EPC before marketing or letting a property.
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Your rental property must have an EPC rating of E or above.
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This applies to all new and existing tenancies (since April 2020).
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EPCs are valid for 10 years, unless you improve your property and wish to reassess it.
Non-Domestic (Commercial) Properties
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Since April 2023, non-domestic landlords must not let or continue to let properties with an EPC rating below E, regardless of tenancy status.
Exemptions
Some properties may qualify for exemptions, such as:
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Listed buildings where improvements would affect their character
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Properties where improvements are not cost-effective (based on a 7-year payback test)
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A maximum cost cap of £3,500 applies for residential landlords
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All exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register
What Happens If You Don't Comply?
Non-compliance with EPC requirements can result in:
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Fines up to £5,000 per property for domestic landlords
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Fines for advertising a property without an EPC (typically £200 per listing)
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Difficulty renting or retaining tenants
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Legal issues if a tenancy proceeds without a valid EPC
Proposed Changes to EPC Rules: What’s Coming?
To support its Net Zero 2050 target, the UK government is preparing to tighten EPC regulations further.
Expected changes include:
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Raising the minimum EPC standard to Band C for rental properties
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Introducing new EPC metrics such as:
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Fabric efficiency (how well the property retains heat)
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Heating system performance
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Smart energy readiness
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Increasing the cost cap for required improvements (proposals suggest up to £15,000)
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Allowing early adopters to retain compliance under the new rules
These changes were expected in 2025 but are now likely to be rolled out in phases from 2026 onward.
Are Tenants Demanding More Energy-Efficient Homes?
Yes. Energy efficiency is becoming a top priority for renters because:
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Rising energy costs make efficient homes more attractive
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Tenants prefer homes that are warmer, cheaper to run, and more comfortable
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Energy-conscious tenants tend to stay longer
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Efficient properties command higher rents and shorter vacancy periods
In short: investing in energy efficiency makes business sense — not just environmental sense.
How Can I Improve My EPC Rating?
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Upgrade Insulation
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Loft insulation (at least 270mm)
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Cavity wall or solid wall insulation
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Underfloor insulation
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Seal draughts around doors, windows, and pipework
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Improve Heating Efficiency
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Install a modern condensing boiler
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Use smart thermostats and heating controls
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Consider low-carbon options like heat pumps
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Enhance Windows and Glazing
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Replace single glazing with double or triple glazing
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Upgrade frames to improve thermal performance
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Switch to Low-Energy Lighting
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Install LED bulbs throughout the property
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Install Renewable Energy Sources
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Solar PV or solar thermal panels
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Battery storage (optional)
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Ventilation and Smart Controls
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Install mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR)
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Add smart meters and app-connected heating controls
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Get a New EPC After Upgrades
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Reassess the property to reflect energy improvements
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EPC Compliance Checklist for Landlords
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Check EPC Validity | Ensure your EPC is still valid (expires after 10 years) |
| Assess Current Rating | If rating is below E, take immediate action or register an exemption |
| Provide EPC to Tenants | Give tenants a copy before move-in (required by law) |
| Implement Improvements | Use EPC suggestions as a guide. Prioritise insulation and heating upgrades |
| Track Costs vs. Cap | Ensure upgrade costs remain within the legal cap (£3,500 currently) |
| Register Exemptions | Do this on the PRS Exemptions Register with supporting evidence |
| Stay Informed | Keep up with EPC changes from 2026 onwards |
| Advertise Responsibly | Never market a rental without an EPC rating |
| Communicate with Tenants | Highlight upgrades and improvements to attract or retain tenants |
Final Thoughts
The EPC landscape is changing, and landlords who stay ahead of the curve will benefit the most — both financially and legally.
With government policy tightening and tenant expectations rising, energy efficiency is no longer optional; it’s a key part of being a responsible and successful landlord.
If your property is below standard, don’t wait.
Start planning your upgrades now, take advantage of any available funding, and ensure your rental meets current and future expectations.
Need help?
Contact our office on 01454 4173336 and speak to one of our qualified members of staff.
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