Energy Performance Certificate
(EPC)
An Energy Performance Certificate rates the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Landlords must provide a valid EPC to tenants before a tenancy begins. Rental properties in England must have a minimum EPC rating of E (with limited exceptions); there are proposals to raise this to C for new tenancies.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property's energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and is valid for 10 years. Private landlords in England must have a valid EPC with a minimum rating of E before letting; letting a property with an F or G rating (without an approved exemption) is unlawful and can attract a civil penalty of up to £30,000. Exemptions can be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register if the required improvements would cost more than £3,500 or are not technically feasible or permitted. The Government has proposed raising the minimum standard to C for new tenancies by 2028 and all tenancies by 2030, though this is not yet law. EPCs must be provided free of charge to prospective tenants before they view the property, and to new tenants at the start of the tenancy.