Energy Performance Certificates - or EPCs - are one of the most established compliance requirements in the private rented sector, yet they’re often misunderstood or overlooked until there’s a problem.
With wider reforms on the horizon and energy efficiency firmly on the government’s agenda, now is a good time for landlords to revisit how EPCs work, what’s required and what to watch out for.
This guide explains EPCs in plain English, what they are, when they’re needed and how they affect you as a landlord.
What is an EPC?
An EPC measures how energy-efficient a property is, rating it from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). On 1 April 2018, MEES regulations came into effect, requiring all rental property to have a minimum rating 'E'.
The certificate includes:
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The property’s current energy rating
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A potential rating if recommended improvements are made
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Estimated energy costs
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Practical suggestions to improve efficiency
EPCs are designed to give tenants and buyers a clear picture of likely energy costs and to encourage landlords to improve inefficient homes over time.
When is an EPC required?
As a landlord, you must have a valid EPC in place when:
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Letting a property to new tenants
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Renewing or re-marketing a property
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Selling a property
The EPC must be:
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Available to prospective tenants at the point of marketing
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Given to tenants before the tenancy starts
An EPC is valid for 10 years, unless a new one is commissioned sooner.
Minimum EPC standards for rented properties
Currently, privately rented properties in England and Wales must meet a minimum EPC rating of E to be legally let.
This applies to:
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New tenancies
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Renewals
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Existing tenancies
If a property falls below this standard, it cannot be legally rented unless a valid exemption applies.
Exemptions: when a property can be let below E
Some properties can be exempt from meeting the minimum standard, but exemptions are not automatic and must be properly registered.
Common examples include:
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Improvements exceeding the cost cap
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Certain listed buildings where efficiency works would alter character
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Situations where required improvements are not possible
Exemptions must be recorded on the PRS Exemptions Register and usually last for a limited period.
Why EPCs matter beyond compliance
While EPCs are a legal requirement, they also play a growing role in:
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Tenant decision-making - energy costs matter more than ever
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Property value and mortgage availability
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Future legislation, including upcoming minimum standards
Properties with stronger energy performance tend to be easier to let, retain tenants for longer and face fewer regulatory hurdles.
What landlords should be doing now
Even if your property currently meets the minimum standard, it’s worth taking a proactive approach.
We recommend landlords:
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Check the expiry date of existing EPCs
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Understand what improvements could increase the rating
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Factor energy efficiency into refurbishment or upgrade plans
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Avoid last-minute compliance issues when re-letting
Small, well-planned improvements can often make a meaningful difference without major disruption.
Our perspective
“EPCs are no longer just a tick-box exercise. They’re becoming a core part of how rental properties are assessed, financed and regulated. Landlords who stay ahead of this now will find themselves in a much stronger position over the next few years.”
— Lisa Bailey, Personal Economy Lettings
How Personal Economy Lettings supports landlords
We help landlords stay compliant without the stress.
Our support includes:
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Reviewing EPC status as part of tenancy preparation
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Flagging risks before they become problems
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Helping landlords plan improvements sensibly, not reactively
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Supporting self-managing landlords through our Lettings PA service
If you’re unsure where your property stands or want a second pair of eyes before changes come into force we’re here to help.
Need clarity on EPCs or wider compliance?
Get in touch with Personal Economy Lettings for calm, practical guidance and support that’s built around your long-term investment, not short-term fixes.
