EPC requirements for landlords

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). For landlords in England, EPCs are not just informational — they carry legal minimum standards that your property must meet before you can let it.

When do I need an EPC?

You need a valid EPC:

• Before you market a property for rent
• When you grant a new tenancy
• When a tenancy is renewed (if the existing EPC has expired)

An EPC is valid for 10 years from the date of issue, but you should check it still meets the minimum standard before relying on an older certificate.

What is the minimum EPC rating?

Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations, since April 2020 the minimum EPC rating for rented properties in England is Band E. This applies to both new and existing tenancies.

You cannot legally let a property with an EPC rating of F or G unless you have registered a valid exemption.

Penalties for non-compliance

Letting a property below the minimum EPC rating can result in:

• A fine of up to £5,000 per property (the penalty is based on the rateable value and can be up to £150,000 for non-domestic properties)
• The penalty is noted on the PRS Exemptions Register for at least 12 months
• No valid tenancy can be granted until the property is brought up to standard or an exemption is registered

Exemptions

If you cannot reasonably improve the property to Band E, you may be able to register an exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register. Exemptions include:

• All improvements made — you have made all relevant energy efficiency improvements and the property still falls below Band E
• High cost — the cost of improvements would exceed the spending cap (currently £3,500 including VAT)
• Wall insulation — where installation would negatively impact the property
• Consent — a third party whose consent is required (such as a freeholder or planning authority) has refused
• Devaluation — an independent surveyor confirms the improvements would reduce the property value by more than 5%

Exemptions last 5 years and must be re-registered if the property is still below Band E at that point.

How to improve your EPC rating

The EPC report itself includes a recommendations section listing improvements that could raise the rating. Common upgrades include:

• Loft insulation (typically the cheapest improvement)
• Cavity wall insulation
• Upgrading the boiler or heating controls
• Double glazing
• Draught-proofing
• LED lighting throughout

Where to find your EPC

All EPCs are recorded on the public EPC Register. You can look up your property at gov.uk/find-energy-certificate. If your property does not have a valid EPC, you will need to commission one from an accredited domestic energy assessor.