Energy

EPC Requirements for Rental Properties

Guide to Energy Performance Certificates for UK landlords. Current minimum E rating, upcoming C rating requirements, and exemptions.

Max fine: £2,000–£4,000 (current Band E); up to £30,000 from October 2030 (Band C)

Deadline: Valid EPC required at all times during tenancy

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. RightHold is a compliance tracking tool, not a law firm. For advice specific to your situation, consult a qualified solicitor.

Key Facts

Minimum EPC rating of E required since April 2020
Valid for 10 years
Government announced minimum C rating by 2030 (subject to secondary legislation)
Exemptions available if cost cap reached (£3,500 for Band E; £10,000 or 10% of property value for Band C from 2030)
Must be provided to tenants before they move in

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates the energy efficiency of a property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Since April 2020, all rental properties in England and Wales must have a minimum EPC rating of E. The government has announced a minimum rating of C from 2030 (subject to secondary legislation).

When Do You Need an EPC?

You need a valid EPC when marketing a property to let, at the start of a new tenancy, when an existing EPC expires during a tenancy, and to demonstrate compliance during an inspection. An EPC is valid for 10 years, but you should check whether your property still meets the minimum rating threshold.

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)

Since 1 April 2020, it has been illegal to let a property with an EPC rating below E, unless you have a valid exemption registered on the PRS Exemptions Register. Exemptions include properties where all cost-effective improvements have been made (the current cost cap is £3,500 including VAT for Band E compliance; this will increase to £10,000 or 10% of property value, whichever is lower, for the confirmed Band C requirement from October 2030), listed buildings where improvements would unacceptably alter character, and properties where a required wall insulation would cause damage.

Penalties

Penalties for renting a property that breaches MEES range from £2,000 for less than 3 months of non-compliance to £4,000 for 3 months or more (up to £5,000 total per property including publication penalties). Under confirmed government reforms, the maximum MEES penalty will increase to £30,000 per property from October 2030.