Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document rating a property's energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), required for all rental properties in England and Wales. The minimum EPC rating for lettings is E, with properties rated F or G prohibited from being let unless a valid exemption is registered. The government proposes raising the minimum to C from 2028, potentially affecting millions of rental properties. Maximum penalty for non-compliance is GBP5,000.

EPC Ratings

Legal Requirements

Current rules:

• EPC required before marketing property
• Minimum rating of E required to let legally
• Must be given to tenant before tenancy starts
• Valid for 10 years
• Displayed on property listings

Coming changes:

• 2030: Minimum EPC C for new tenancies
• 2030+: Minimum EPC C for all tenancies (proposed)

EPC Contents

An EPC includes:

• Current energy efficiency rating
• Potential rating after improvements
• Environmental impact rating
• Estimated energy costs
• Recommendations for improvements
• Property details

Getting an EPC

• Must be produced by accredited assessor
• Takes 30-60 minutes typically
• Costs £60-120
• Register at: epcregister.com

Exemptions

Properties exempt from minimum E:

• Listed buildings (if improvements harm character)
• Temporary buildings (<2 years)
• Properties where all improvements made
• Cost cap exceeded (£3,500)
• Valid exemption registered

For Letting Agents

EPC compliance requires:

• Check EPC before taking on property
• Ensure minimum E rating met
• Include rating in marketing materials
• Advise landlords on improvement options
• Prepare for 2030 changes