Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) were introduced in 2018 by the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). As of 2020, all new and existing tenancies in England and Wales need EPC certificates.

EPC Certificates are a legal requirement for tenanted properties throughout the UK. This certificate is a legal document rating a property's energy efficiency, estimating annual energy costs, and recommending improvements to boost efficiency.

“New regulations and changes have been introduced this year for landlords,” said Lydia, the Office Manager at Efficient Home Energy, a leading gas and electrical specialist in London. “As of this year, the EPC Band E minimum remains in place and is a legal requirement for landlords. Currently, there is no Band C deadline, though future targets remain under discussion for introducing a Band C minimum in the next five years.”

Lydia went on to say, “Landlords cannot legally rent out a property with an EPC Band of F or G, or if there is no valid EPC certificate. While there are some limited exemptions, we recommend landlords check their certificates and ensure they are still valid, bearing in mind that they expire after ten years.”

In 2021, the government proposed an EPC Band C minimum for rental properties, which was to take effect this year for all new tenancies, and by 2028 for all tenancies, including existing rentals. This was abandoned in September 2023, maintaining the EPC Band E rating. There is an existing penalty for non-compliance of up to £5,000 for landlords who rent out a property that does not meet the requirements.

While there are no new deadlines set, the government is focusing on introducing stricter EPC rules in the future. As of 2025, Band F to G cannot be legally rented without upgrading; Band E remains the legal minimum for rental properties, while Band C remains the future target.

EPC Certificates are valid for ten years and only need to be renewed within the ten-year period when starting a new tenancy or selling the property. At the same time, if you are in Scotland, you will need to renew your EPC Certificate every ten years, whether there is a tenant change or not.

Backed by ten years of experience, Efficient Home Energy is a leading supplier of EPC Certificates in London. With a qualified team of professionals, the company provides EPC Certificates, Electrical Certificates, and Gas Safety Certificates to homeowners throughout the city. They also bundle these certificates together, saving landlords 10%.

About Efficient Home Energy

Efficient Home Energy is a leader in electrical and gas installations and servicing. Backed by more than ten years of experience catering to clients throughout London, the company has grown into a leading service provider for homes and businesses. Efficient Home Energy meets all your electrical and gas requirements, including Gas Safety Certificates, Electrical Certificates, and EPC Certificates. They are accredited members of Refcom F-Gas Certification and an NICEIC Domestic Installer, enabling you to use their services with confidence. Find out more by visiting the Efficient Home Energy website at https://efficienthomeenergy.uk.