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Landlord EPC guide

What landlords need to know about EPC ratings for letting properties

If you’re a landlord, it’s important to understand government energy efficiency standards and how they affect the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of any property you rent out.

In England and Wales, most rental properties have required an EPC since 2008. The current legal minimum EPC rating is E. The government has plans to raise to a C-equivalent standard by October 2030 for all private rental properties.

Scotland has its own standards. A reformed EPC system with new ratings and metrics is due to be introduced from October 2026, with proposals currently pointing towards a C‑equivalent standard in future. Timings are still being finalised.

Some properties may qualify for exemptions, such as certain listed or protected buildings that are not suitable for energy efficiency upgrades. In most cases, however, minimum standards must be met and financial penalties may apply if they are not.

You can check your property’s EPC rating on the government EPC register, or learn more in our EPC certificate guide.

What do EPC standards mean for tenants?

EPC improvements are generally good news for tenants. Any changes you make should help the property use energy more efficiently, which can mean lower energy bills and a more comfortable home.

As a landlord, there may be benefits for you too. Improving a property’s energy efficiency can help maintain or increase its value and make it more appealing to current and prospective tenants, alongside meeting regulatory requirements.

If a professional energy assessor needs to visit the property, the visit should be arranged in line with standard tenant rights, with reasonable notice and access.

Improve your letting property's EPC rating

Get a free digital plan to see how you could make the property you let more energy efficient.

  • Clear typical cost and benefits.
  • Estimated payback period.
  • Find trusted tradespeople to carry out improvements.
  • Enter your postcode to get your Home Energy Plan.
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