An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates the energy efficiency of a property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). All rental properties in England and Wales must have a valid EPC and the minimum permitted rating is E. Letting a property with an F or G rating is unlawful and carries civil penalties of up to £30,000.
EPC basics for landlords
- An EPC is required before a property is marketed or let
- The certificate is valid for 10 years, a new assessment is required after expiry
- The minimum standard for rental properties in England and Wales is EPC grade E
- An EPC must be commissioned from an accredited domestic energy assessor
- The EPC must be provided to prospective tenants before the tenancy commences
- Check whether your property already has a valid EPC at find-energy-certificate.service.gov.uk
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)
- It is unlawful to let a property with an EPC below E to a new tenant (since April 2018)
- It is unlawful to continue letting a property with an EPC below E to any tenant (since April 2020)
- Civil penalty: up to £5,000 per property for a breach under 3 months; up to £30,000 for a breach of 3+ months
- Exemptions exist for listed buildings, properties where improvements exceed the cost cap, and where a valid exemption is on the PRS Exemptions Register
EPC C target, policy update
The UK government has proposed raising the minimum standard for new lettings to EPC C by 2028 and all rentals by 2030. This is policy, not yet enacted law as of May 2026. Landlords with D-rated or below properties should plan improvement works now.
- EPC C target is a policy proposal, not yet law as of May 2026
- When enacted, the threshold will apply to new tenancies first, then existing tenancies
- Properties at D or below should plan: insulation, boiler upgrade, double glazing
- Government funding available in some cases: ECO4 scheme and Boiler Upgrade Scheme
How to get an EPC
- Commission an accredited domestic energy assessor, search at find-energy-certificate.service.gov.uk
- The assessor inspects insulation, heating, windows, hot water, and lighting
- Cost: typically £60–£120 for a standard property
- The EPC is lodged on the national register and valid for 10 years
- If you make significant energy improvements (new boiler, insulation), commission a new EPC to reflect the changes
EPC and possession proceedings
All statutory obligations, including the EPC, must be met before serving a Section 8 possession notice under the Renters' Rights Act 2025. A missing EPC at tenancy commencement, or failure to provide it to the tenant, may invalidate a subsequent Section 8 notice. Ensure the EPC is served with the tenancy documents at move-in.