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 still check it meets the minimum standard before relying on an older certificate.
What is the minimum EPC rating?
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards regulations, the minimum EPC rating for most rented properties in England is Band E.
You cannot legally let a property with an EPC rating of F or G unless you have registered a valid exemption.
Proposed changes
The government has at various points proposed raising the minimum to Band C. Timelines have been delayed and details remain uncertain, so check the latest position on GOV.UK before making major investment decisions based on future requirements.
Penalties for non-compliance
Letting a property below the minimum EPC rating can result in:
- A fine of up to £5,000 per property in many residential cases
- Publication of the penalty on the PRS Exemptions Register
- The need to stop letting until the property is improved or a valid 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.
- All improvements made - relevant works have been completed and the property still falls below Band E
- High cost - the cost of improvements would exceed the spending cap, currently around £3,500 including VAT
- Wall insulation - where installation would negatively affect the property
- Consent - a third party whose consent is needed has refused
- Devaluation - an independent surveyor confirms the works would reduce property value materially
Exemptions last 5 years and need to 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 recommendations that could improve the score. Common upgrades include:
- Loft insulation
- 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.