Energy Performance Check: Maximise Efficiency

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are crucial for property owners and landlords aiming to maximise energy efficiency, meet legal standards, and attract tenants in the UK’s evolving property market. With new EPC rules and future proposals, understanding your responsibilities is more important than ever.

What is an EPC and Why Does It Matter?

An Energy Performance Certificate rates a property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It provides recommendations for improvement, helping landlords and property owners reduce energy bills, cut carbon emissions, and comply with the law. EPCs are required for all properties being built, sold, or let in England, Wales, and Scotland, and must be renewed every 10 years or sooner if improvements are made.

Current EPC Rules for Domestic Properties

As of 2025, the minimum legal requirement for domestic rental properties in England and Wales is an EPC rating of E. Landlords cannot let a property—whether for a new or existing tenancy—if the EPC is below Band E (F or G), or if there is no valid EPC. This rule has been in place since the introduction of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in 2018 and continues to be enforced. Certificates are valid for 10 years, but a new EPC must be obtained if the property is re-let after expiry.

For more details, see the official government guidance.

Upcoming and Proposed Changes

The government originally proposed that all new tenancies would require an EPC rating of C or above by 2025, with all existing tenancies to follow by 2028. However, these deadlines were scrapped in 2023 due to concerns about feasibility and costs. The current proposal is for new tenancies to meet EPC C by 2028 and all tenancies by 2030, as part of the Minimum Energy Performance of Buildings Bill, which is still under consultation. Landlords should still prepare for these changes, as they align with the UK’s commitment to Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050.

See more about these evolving rules here and here.

Commercial EPC Rules for 2025 and Beyond

Commercial properties face even stricter requirements. From April 2025, all let commercial properties in England and Wales must have an EPC rating of E or above—including existing leases, not just new ones. By 2027, the interim target is EPC C, and by 2030, the minimum will be EPC B. These changes are designed to drive significant improvements in the energy performance of non-domestic buildings, which account for a large share of the UK’s carbon output.

The new regulations also introduce:

• Shorter EPC validity (reduced from 10 years to 5-7 years).

• Stricter assessment criteria for building fabric, heating, ventilation, and cooling systems.

• Enhanced documentation and reporting requirements, including detailed energy consumption and carbon emissions data.

• Increased local authority powers for inspection and enforcement.

For more, see government guidance for non-domestic properties.

Maximising Efficiency: Steps for Landlords and Owners

• Assess your current EPC rating and review recommendations for improvement.

• Upgrade insulation, heating, and lighting—common measures include installing double glazing, LED lighting, efficient boilers, and renewable energy sources.

• Plan ahead for future rules by aiming for EPC C or above, even if not yet legally required.

• Keep documentation of all upgrades and maintenance to support future EPC assessments.

• Consult accredited assessors for advice on the most cost-effective improvements.

The Benefits of Proactive Energy Performance Checks

By acting early, landlords can avoid last-minute compliance rushes, reduce energy bills, and make their properties more attractive to tenants. Properties with higher EPC ratings are also likely to hold their value better as energy standards tighten.

For a professional assessment and to ensure you meet all current and future requirements, consider booking an EPC check with a trusted provider like Landlords Checks.

Stay Ahead with the Latest EPC Rules

Energy efficiency is no longer just a selling point—it’s a legal and financial imperative. With new EPC rules on the horizon, landlords and property owners should act now to maximise efficiency, comply with regulations, and future-proof their investments. For expert advice and certified EPC assessments, visit Landlords Checks.

Useful Resources

• Domestic private rented property: minimum energy efficiency standard – GOV.UK

• Non-domestic private rented property: minimum energy efficiency standard – GOV.UK

• What are the new EPC rules in 2025?

• EPC Requirements for Landlords (2025 Rules & Updates)