EPC Requirements for Landlords (2025 Rules & Updates)

In 2018, Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) introduced a crucial EPC requirements for landlords: all rental properties must achieve at least an EPC Band E rating for new tenancies. Since April 2020, this rule applies to ALL existing tenancies in England and Wales – not just new agreements.

The government proposed significant updates in 2021, including plans to raise minimum standards to EPC Band C for new tenancies by 2025 and all rentals by 2028. However, following industry consultation and economic assessments, these deadlines were formally abandoned in September 2023.

As of 2025:

• The EPC Band E minimum remains the ONLY legally enforced requirement

• No Band C deadline is currently in law, though government consultations continue

• Future targets (potentially Band C by 2030) remain under discussion

In this article, we cut through the confusion with:

• What Are the Current EPC Requirements?
• Are EPC Requirements Changing?
• What is an EPC?
• Do I Need Tenant Permission for an EPC Assessment?
• How Long Does an EPC Last?
• When Do I Need to Renew My EPC?
• How Can Landlords Meet Current EPC Requirements?
• Which Properties Are Exempt from EPC Requirements?
• Are Tenants Entitled to a Copy of the EPC?
• What Happens If I Don’t Have an EPC?
• EPC Requirements for Scotland & Wales
• Are More EPC Changes Coming?
• What’s Your View on the EPC U-Turn? Share Your Experience?

What Are the Current EPC Requirements?

• Since 2008: All rental properties in England and Wales must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

• April 2018: The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) made it illegal to let or renew tenancies for properties with an EPC rating below Band E.

• April 2020: This rule extended to all existing tenancies – meaning even long-term rentals must comply.

Key 2025 Update

While the government scrapped plans to raise the minimum to Band C by 2025, the Band E requirement remains law. Landlords cannot legally let a property (new or existing tenancy) if:

• The EPC is below Band E (F or G), or

• No valid EPC exists (certificates expire after 10 years).

Exemptions: Limited exceptions apply (e.g., listed buildings, cost-prohibitive upgrades), but landlords must register these on the PRS Exemptions Register

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Are EPC Requirements Changing?

The Latest Updates (2025)

1. Band C Proposal Officially Scrapped

   • The government’s 2021 proposal to require EPC Band C for rentals by 2025 (new tenancies) and 2028 (all tenancies) was fully abandoned in September 2023.

   • Current law still mandates only EPC Band E as the minimum standard.

2. No Changes to Penalties

   • The planned increase in fines (from £5,000 to £30,000) was also dropped.

   • Existing penalties remain: up to £5,000 for renting a sub-Band E property.

3. Future Uncertainty

   • While no new deadlines are set, the government’s Net Zero 2050 target means stricter EPC rules may return.

   • Scotland is still considering its own Band C by 2028 requirement – landlords with properties across the UK should monitor regional differences.

Why the Reversal?

• Cost concerns: Upgrades to Band C were estimated to cost landlords £10,000–£15,000 per property.

• Practical challenges: Shortages of qualified installers and materials (e.g., heat pumps, insulation).

• Political shift: Focus moved to voluntary schemes like the Great British Insulation Scheme rather than enforced deadlines.

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What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal document that:
✔ Rates your property’s energy efficiency (A = best, G = worst)
✔ Estimates annual energy costs for heating, lighting, and hot water
✔ Recommends cost-effective improvements to boost efficiency.

How EPC Assessments Work

A qualified assessor will inspect your property for 30-40 minutes, checking:

What They Examine	Why It Matters
Windows & doors	Heat loss/draughts
Insulation (loft/walls)	Key to retaining warmth
Heating systems	Age/type of boiler affects efficiency
Renewable energy	Solar panels/heat pumps boost ratings
Lighting	LED vs. halogen bulb impact
Property age & size	Older/larger homes often score lower

Understanding Your EPC Rating

• Band A-B (90+ points): Top 10% of UK properties

• Band C (69-80 points): Future target (currently voluntary)

• Band E (39-54 points): Legal minimum for rentals

• Band F-G (1-38 points): Cannot be legally let without upgrades
  
  2025 Insight: The average UK rental scores Band D – use your EPC’s recommendation report to identify priority upgrades.

Why It Matters in 2025

• Legal compliance: Band E minimum still enforced

• Tenant demand: 68% prefer energy-efficient homes (Rightmove)

• Future-proofing: Scotland may enforce Band C by 2028

Tip: Check your property’s EPC for free at EPC Register.

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Do I Need Tenant Permission for an EPC Assessment?

✅ 24-Hour Notice Required: You must provide tenants with written notice at least 24 hours before the EPC assessment.
✅ Tenant Consent Needed: While tenants cannot unreasonably refuse access for a legally required EPC, they may:

• Request to reschedule (within reason)

• Ask to be present during the inspection

What If My Tenant Refuses?

1. Explain the Legal Requirement: EPCs are mandatory – without one, you risk:

   • £200 fine for no valid EPC

   • Inability to legally let the property

2. Offer Flexibility: Propose multiple time slots to accommodate their schedule.

3. Formal Notice: If refusal persists, serve a Section 21 notice (England/Wales) after tenancy terms allow.

Emergency Access Rights

Tenant consent is not required for:

• Gas leaks

• Flooding

• Electrical hazards

• Other immediate health/safety risks.

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How Long Does an EPC Last?

Validity Period

✅ 10 Years: Your EPC remains valid for a decade from the issue date.
✅ Renewal Triggers: You only need a new EPC when:

• Starting a new tenancy (even if the rating hasn’t changed).

• Selling the property.

Note: Scotland requires renewal every 10 years regardless of tenancy changes.

What’s in Your EPC Report?

The assessment includes cost-effective improvement suggestions, such as:

Top 2025 Upgrades for Landlords

Improvement	Avg. Cost	EPC Impact
Loft/cavity wall insulation	£500–£1,500	+10–20 points
Smart thermostat	£150–£300	+5–10 points
Solar panels	£4,000–£8,000	+15–30 points
Air source heat pump*	£7,000–£13,000	+20–40 points

 

Eligible for £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant until 2028.

 

Other Common Recommendations

• Draught-proofing windows/doors

• Low-energy lighting (LEDs)

• Insulating hot water tanks/pipes

Pro Tip: Use the EPC Improvement Tool to prioritize upgrades based on your property’s specifics.

Why Update an Expired EPC?

Even if not legally required, a new EPC may reveal:

• Cheaper improvements (e.g., newer insulation methods).

• Higher-scoring upgrades (heat pumps now add more points than in 2015 assessments).

• Grant eligibility (some schemes require a recent EPC)

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When Do I Need to Renew My EPC?

Key Renewal Rules for Landlords

✅ 10-Year Validity: EPCs expire a decade after issue (check your certificate’s date).
✅ Renewal Triggers: You must get a new EPC when:

• Starting a new tenancy (even with the same rating).

• Selling the property.

• Mortgage lenders require it (some “green mortgages” demand recent EPCs).

⚠️ Important Exception: In Scotland, EPCs must be renewed every 10 years regardless of tenancy changes.

Why Consider Renewing Early?

Even if not legally required, a new EPC may help you:

• Discover cheaper upgrades (e.g., newer insulation methods).

• Access grants (some schemes require EPCs <5 years old).

• Boost tenant appeal (68% prefer homes with higher ratings).

*Example: A 2015 EPC might recommend expensive double glazing, while a 2025 assessment could suggest cost-effective smart thermostats instead.*

How to Check Your EPC Status

1. Visit the EPC Register.

2. Enter your postcode.

3. Download your current certificate (free).

Penalty Risk: Fines up to £200 if caught without a valid EPC during a trigger event.

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How Can Landlords Meet Current EPC Requirements?

1. Get an EPC Assessment

• No EPC? Book an assessment immediately with a qualified domestic energy assessor.

• The inspection takes 30–40 minutes, but implementing improvements (if needed) may take weeks.

• Cost: From £89 (Inc. VAT) (varies by property size/location).

2. Understand Your EPC Report

• If your property is Band E or above: No action required (but consider voluntary upgrades for future-proofing).

• If Band F or G: You must make improvements to reach Band E.

3. Funding & Cost Rules

• Spending Cap: The £3,500 cap (including grants) still applies for upgrades to meet Band E.

• Exemptions: Register a high-cost exemption if:

  • Improvements exceed £3,500, or

  • You lack necessary permissions (e.g., from freeholders).

• Grants Available:

  • Great British Insulation Scheme (free or discounted insulation).

  • 0% VAT on energy-saving materials (e.g., insulation, solar panels) until 2027.

4. Recommended Upgrades

Improvement	Typical Cost	EPC Impact
LED lighting	£50–£150	+1–5 points
Cavity wall insulation	£500–£1,500	+10–20 points
Smart thermostat	£150–£300	+5–10 points

 

5. Next Steps

1. Check your EPC rating here.

2. Prioritize low-cost, high-impact upgrades (see table above).

3. Apply for grants before investing your own funds.

Pro Tip: Use the government’s EPC Improvement Tool for a tailored upgrade plan.

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Which Properties Are Exempt from EPC Requirements?

Full List of Exemptions (2025 Rules)

Your rental property does not need an EPC if it falls under one of these categories:

1. Listed or Protected Buildings

   • Where energy efficiency improvements would “unacceptably alter” character/appearance (e.g., installing double glazing in a Grade II-listed window).

   • Note: You must provide evidence (e.g., conservation officer’s written advice).

2. Temporary Buildings

   • Structures designed for use ≤ 2 years (e.g., construction site offices).

3. Places of Worship

   • Active religious buildings (e.g., churches, mosques).

4. Industrial/Workshop Facilities

   • Sites with minimal energy use (e.g., standalone workshops, non-residential agricultural buildings).

5. Small Detached Buildings

   • Properties with ≤ 50m² floor space (e.g., garden annexes, tiny homes).

6. Scheduled for Demolition

   • Requires proof (e.g., planning permission or demolition notice).

How to Claim an Exemption

• Register on the PRS Exemptions Register.

• Provide supporting documents (e.g., listed building consent, demolition permits).

• Exemptions last 5 years (renewable if criteria still apply).

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Are Tenants Entitled to a Copy of the EPC?

Landlord Obligations

✅ Legal Requirement: You must provide tenants with a copy of the property’s EPC:

• Before they sign the tenancy agreement

• At the start of any new tenancy (including renewals with existing tenants)

⚠️ Penalty: Failing to supply an EPC can result in:

• £200 fine per violation

• Invalid Section 21 eviction notices (England/Wales)

How Tenants Can Access the EPC

1. From the Landlord: Request a digital or paper copy.

2. Online Check: Search the EPC Register using:

   • The property’s postcode

   • The report reference number (if available)

Note: The register shows all EPCs issued since 2008, including expired certificates.

Why This Matters in 2025

• Tenant Rights: 72% of renters check EPCs before signing leases (Rightmove 2025).

• Energy Costs: Band A homes save tenants £1,200/year vs. Band D (EST).

• Future Rules: Scotland may require EPCs in all rental ads by 2026

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What Happens If I Don’t Have an EPC?

Immediate Legal Consequences

🚨 Fines:

• £5,000 for renting a property without a valid EPC (per property)

• £200 for failing to display the EPC in rental ads (England/Wales)

⚖️ Invalid Evictions:

• Cannot serve a Section 21 notice without providing:

  • Current EPC

  • Gas Safety Certificate

  • Latest EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)

  • How to Rent guide (England only)

Long-Term Risks

• Mortgage Issues: Lenders may withhold financing for non-compliant properties.

• Insurance Voidance: Some policies require valid EPCs.

• Tenant Disputes: Renters can report violations to local Trading Standards.

How to Fix It Fast

1. Book an Assessment: Find an accredited assessor (from £89).

2. Upgrade if Needed: If rating is F/G, you have 3 months to improve to Band E.

3. Submit Proof: Provide tenants/local authorities with the new EPC.

“Landlords in London face stricter enforcement – fines are 20% higher in the capital.”

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EPC Requirements for Scotland & Wales

Scotland

✅ Minimum Rating: Band E (same as England)
✅ Stricter Renewal Rules: EPCs must be renewed every 10 years (even without tenancy changes)
⚠️ Future Changes: Scottish Government proposes Band C by 2028 (consultation ongoing)
🔍 Additional Requirement: EPC must be displayed in all rental ads

Wales

✅ Minimum Rating: Band E
✅ Renewal Trigger: Only when selling/re-letting (like England)
⚠️ Special Cases: Some rural properties may qualify for exemptions

Key Differences at a Glance

Requirement	Scotland	Wales	England
Minimum EPC	Band E	Band E	Band E
Renewal Frequency	Every 10 years	At trigger points	At trigger points
Ad Display Rules	Mandatory	Recommended	Mandatory

 

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Fines up to £5,000 in both nations

• Invalid evictions (cannot serve Section 21 equivalent notices)

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Are More EPC Changes Coming?

Current Legal Position

✅ No immediate changes: The Band E minimum remains law after the government scrapped the 2025/2028 Band C deadlines.
✅ No new deadlines are confirmed, but the Net Zero 2050 target means future reforms are likely.

Government Recommendations & Support

Despite the U-turn, ministers still advise voluntary upgrades to:

• Cut tenant energy bills (average £250/year savings for Band C vs. E).

• Future-proof properties against potential 2030 regulations.

• Access grants:

  • Boiler Upgrade Scheme: Increased to £7,500 for heat pumps (until 2028).

  • Great British Insulation Scheme: Free or discounted insulation for eligible homes.

Why Act Now?

Benefit	Impact
Tenant Demand	68% of renters prefer energy-efficient homes (Rightmove 2025).
Mortgage Savings	“Green mortgages” offer lower rates for higher EPC ratings.
Avoid Future Rush	If Band C returns, early adopters won’t face last-minute upgrade chaos.

 

Our Advice

1. Meet the law: Ensure your property is Band E+ with a valid EPC.

2. Plan ahead: Use the free EPC Improvement Tool to identify cost-effective upgrades.

3. Leverage grants: Explore funding before investing your own capital.

“While Band E is legally sufficient today, proactive landlords are already preparing for tomorrow’s standards.”

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What’s Your View on the EPC U-Turn? Share Your Experience?

The government’s 2023 reversal on EPC upgrades sparked fierce debate. Now in 2025, we’re seeing the real-world impact:

✅ Relieved landlords who avoided costly upgrades
⚠️ Frustrated tenants facing higher energy bills in inefficient homes
💡 Forward-thinking investors still upgrading voluntarily

We want to hear from you:

• Did you already invest in upgrades before the U-turn?

• Have you changed your strategy (e.g., selling/retrofitting)?

• Do you think Band C requirements should return?

Join the conversation below – your insights help other landlords navigate this shifting landscape.

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Resources:

• Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)
• Search the official EPC register for your property’s energy certificate
• EPC Improvement Tool
• PRS Exemptions Register