Energy Performance Certificates (EPC)

An Energy Performance Certificate rates the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It also includes recommendations for improving the property's energy efficiency.

Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES):

• Since April 2020, it is illegal to let a property with an EPC rating of F or G
• The minimum acceptable rating is Band E
• EPCs are valid for 10 years
• You must provide the EPC to prospective tenants before they view the property
• The EPC must be included in any property advertisement
• You cannot serve a valid Section 21 notice without having provided an EPC to the tenant

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces several changes affecting EPCs:

National Landlord Database: You must upload a valid EPC to the database. Properties cannot be marketed or let without valid certification on the database.

Future EPC requirements: The government is consulting on raising the minimum standard to EPC Band C:

• By 2028 for new tenancies
• By 2030 for all existing tenancies
• A proposed cost cap of £15,000 for required improvements
• New EPC methodology expected from 2026

While the specific dates are subject to consultation, the direction of travel is clear - landlords should plan for higher energy efficiency standards.

Current penalties:

• Fines up to £5,000 per property for letting below minimum standard
• Publication on a public register of non-compliant landlords
• Inability to serve Section 21 notices without a valid EPC

From 1 May 2026:

• Civil penalties up to £7,000 for initial breaches, £40,000 for serious/repeated breaches
• Inability to register on the National Landlord Database without valid EPC
• Restrictions on serving possession notices if not properly registered

Some properties may be exempt from MEES requirements:

• Listed buildings where improvements would unacceptably alter character
• Properties where all cost-effective improvements have been made
• Properties where improvements would cost more than £3,500 (current cap - expected to increase to £15,000)
• Properties where third-party consent cannot be obtained

Exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register and typically last 5 years.