EPC compliance: the complete landlord guide

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate rates a property's energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and is produced by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor. It includes the current and potential rating, estimated energy costs, and a list of recommended improvements with indicative costs and savings.

The certificate exists so prospective tenants can compare running costs, and so government can drive up the energy performance of the housing stock. For landlords it is both a marketing document and a legal gatekeeper: no valid EPC, no legal let.

Who needs one?

Almost every let property needs an EPC before it can be marketed or let, and a copy must be given to the tenant. A few building types are exempt, such as certain listed buildings where compliance would unacceptably alter their character, temporary buildings, and some places of worship.

Validity period

An EPC is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. You do not need a new one for each tenancy as long as the existing certificate has not expired. If you make significant energy improvements it can be worth commissioning a fresh assessment early to capture a higher rating.

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)

Under MEES it is currently unlawful to let a domestic property with an EPC rating below E unless a valid exemption is registered. This applies to new lets and continuing tenancies. Enforcement is by the local authority, which can issue compliance and penalty notices.

EPC and MEES exemptions

• High-cost exemption: where all relevant improvements would exceed the cost cap.
• Wall insulation exemption: where a suitable expert advises insulation would damage the property.
• Third-party consent exemption: where a tenant, lender or planning authority refuses necessary consent.
• Devaluation exemption: where improvements would reduce the property's value by more than 5%.

Exemptions are not automatic — they must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register and generally last five years.

How to improve an EPC rating

1. 1Switch all lighting to LED — cheap, immediate point gains.
2. 2Improve loft insulation to the recommended depth.
3. 3Insulate cavity walls, or use internal/external insulation on solid walls.
4. 4Upgrade heating controls (room thermostat, TRVs, programmer).
5. 5Replace an old boiler with a modern condensing or low-carbon system.
6. 6Draught-proof, and consider double or secondary glazing where appropriate.

Common landlord mistakes

• Letting an old certificate lapse mid-tenancy and only noticing when seeking possession.
• Relying on an F or G rating without registering a valid exemption.
• Commissioning a new EPC after improvements that the old (lower) one already covered, wasting money — or failing to commission one when works would have lifted the rating.
• Not giving the tenant a copy, which can affect later notices.

EPC expiry reminders