For landlords in 2025, Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) compliance remains a key legal obligation in the UK rental sector. An EPC measures a property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and provides recommendations for improvements that can reduce energy costs and environmental impact.
Since 2018, landlords must ensure all new tenancies have an EPC rating of at least E. This minimum standard was extended to all existing tenancies from April 2020. Properties rated below E (F or G) cannot be legally let unless a valid exemption is registered. EPC certificates are valid for 10 years and must be renewed after expiry or when significant changes are made to the property.
Although the government had originally planned to raise the minimum EPC rating to Band C for new tenancies by 2025 and all tenancies by 2028, these proposals were scrapped in September 2023 due to concerns about the financial burden on landlords and the feasibility of meeting such short deadlines. As of 2025, the minimum legal requirement remains Band E. However, the government continues to consult on future regulations aiming for a Band C minimum by 2030.
Landlords must:
Ensure every rental property has a valid EPC rated E or above.
Renew EPCs every 10 years or sooner if major energy efficiency improvements are made.
Provide tenants with a copy of the EPC at the start of each tenancy.
Register any applicable exemptions formally, supported by evidence.
Failing to comply with these requirements can lead to enforcement action and fines.
While no immediate Band C requirement is in force, landlords are encouraged to plan energy efficiency upgrades such as improved insulation, modern heating systems, or double glazing to prepare for future regulatory changes and improve tenant satisfaction.
Landlords Checks Services to Support EPC Compliance
To help landlords meet their legal obligations efficiently, Landlords Checks offers a range of professional services including:
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Assessments: Accurate and timely EPC certification to ensure your property meets current legal standards and to provide recommendations for improving energy efficiency.
Book your EPC assessment here: Energy Performance Certificate
Fire Risk Assessments: Comprehensive fire safety evaluations to identify hazards and ensure tenant protection.
More info: Fire Risk Assessment
Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR): Essential electrical safety inspections to comply with regulations and protect tenants.
Details here: EICR Services
Gas Safety Certificates (CP12): Annual gas safety checks to verify gas appliances and installations are safe and compliant.
Learn more: Gas Safety Certificates
Asbestos Surveys and Other Safety Services: Additional safety certifications and checks to ensure full compliance and tenant safety.
These services include instant online pricing and next-day appointments, making compliance straightforward and convenient. The Landlords Checks team also provides expert advice to help landlords understand their responsibilities and select the right services.
Additional helpful resources from Landlords Checks:
EPC Assessor: How to Choose the Right One
EPC Certificate UK: What Landlords Need to Know
EPC Cost Guide for London Landlords
Official UK Government Guidance for Landlords
Domestic Private Rented Property: Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard – Landlord Guidance
Energy Performance Certificates for Buildings
Non-Domestic Private Rented Property: Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard – Landlord Guidance
For 2025, landlords must ensure all rental properties have a valid EPC rated E or above, provide this certificate to tenants, and formally register any exemptions. While a Band C requirement is not yet law, future regulations are anticipated by 2030, so early planning and investment in energy efficiency upgrades are advisable. Utilizing professional landlord checks and EPC services from trusted providers like Landlords Checks can simplify compliance, reduce risks, and improve the quality and safety of rental properties.