An EPC – or Energy Performance Certificate – is a document required by the landlord or owner of any residential or commercial property that is under construction, being sold, or available to let.
EPCs are designed to show how energy-efficient a property is, giving it a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient), along with practical recommendations for improvement.
Although EPCs are a legal requirement across the UK, though they are regulated and administered separately in Scotland from the rest of the UK.
England, Wales and Northern Ireland are under the Gov.UK scheme while in Scotland there is a separate register.
You can face significant fines if you fail to provide an EPC when one is required.
What does the EPC show?
The certificate confirms the energy performance of a property, using a grading scale from A to G, where:
- A represents the most energy-efficient homes (lower fuel bills)
- G indicates the least efficient (higher running costs)
The EPC is colour-coded and looks similar to the efficiency labels you see on appliances like fridges or washing machines.
Unlike appliances, however, you can improve your property’s EPC rating by carrying out recommended improvements, such as:
- installing better insulation;
- switching to LED lighting;
- upgrading to a more efficient boiler.
These upgrades can help lower your tenant’s energy bills – something that may make your property more attractive and encourage tenants to stay longer.
It’s also a legal requirement to provide a copy of the EPC to your tenants. Failing to do so could result in a fixed penalty.
An EPC remains valid for 10 years, though you might choose to renew it earlier if you make significant energy-saving improvements.
If you’re letting a house in multiple occupation (HMO) with shared facilities or running a hostel, an EPC may not be required. However, for most standard lettings, a valid EPC is essential for each self-contained unit.
EPCs for landlords
The NRLA recently reported that the UK government is planning tougher energy efficiency requirements for rental properties as part of its long-term environmental strategy. These proposed rules are designed to help lower carbon emissions and create more sustainable housing stock. As it stands, landlords must meet a minimum EPC rating of E, but upcoming changes could raise this bar to a C rating by 2030.
These developments reflect the UK’s broader ambition to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and while the aims are environmentally positive, the implications for landlords are considerable. Meeting the new standards will involve planning ahead, investment, and possibly rethinking property management strategies.
What will this mean for landlords?
If the proposed regulations go ahead, landlords with rental homes currently rated D or below on their EPC will need to carry out improvements to boost their property’s energy efficiency. Failure to meet the requirements could result in steep penalties – potentially up to £30,000 for non-compliance.
All privately rented properties – including buy-to-let homes – will be affected. Common improvements might include upgrading insulation, installing more efficient heating systems, or replacing single glazing with double-glazed windows.
For many landlords, especially those with older or traditionally built homes, the scale and cost of these upgrades could be significant. There’s also the challenge of funding the work, managing rising costs of materials and labour, and ensuring any renovations are carried out within legal timelines.
Are there any support options?
While the investment required may seem daunting, the government has introduced and proposed various schemes to help landlords meet the upcoming standards. For instance, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (in England and Wales) and the Great British Insulation Scheme are aimed at helping property owners reduce the cost of energy-saving improvements.
Outside England and Wales, there is the Home Energy Scotland website – funded by the Scottish Government and managed by Energy Saving Trust – and NiDirect in Northern Ireland who may have help available.
How do I get an EPC?
EPCs must be issued by a qualified and accredited domestic energy assessor.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, you can:
- find a registered assessor via the government website;
- view or download existing EPCs for your property.
For properties in Scotland, the process differs:
- use the Scottish EPC Register to find an accredited assessor and view property certificates;
- don’t forget – in Scotland, you’re legally required to display the EPC somewhere in the property once issued.
At a time of rising energy bills, improving your property’s energy performance is not only a legal obligation but can also make financial sense – for both you and your tenants.
Please note: This blog is for general information only and reflects our understanding of legislation at the time of writing. Regulations are subject to change, so always check the latest government guidance or consult a qualified professional to ensure compliance. Any third-party links supplied are for information only and should not be seen as recommendations.
Further reading: Energy-saving tips and green funding for your home
