Current EPC Requirements
As of 2025, all rental properties in England and Wales must have a minimum EPC rating of E to be legally let.
What You Need to Know
- EPC ratings range from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient)
- Minimum E rating required since April 2020
- Fines of up to £5,000 for non-compliance
- EPC valid for 10 years
Upcoming Changes
The government has proposed increasing the minimum requirement to C for:
- New tenancies: Target date TBC (previously proposed 2025)
- Existing tenancies: Target date TBC (previously proposed 2028)
*Note: Exact implementation dates are subject to government confirmation.*
Cost Cap Exemptions
If you cannot achieve the minimum rating within the cost cap, you may apply for an exemption:
- Current cap: £3,500 (including VAT)
- Must register the exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register
- Exemption lasts 5 years
Improving Your EPC Rating
Quick Wins (Low Cost)
- Loft insulation - Often the best ROI
- Draught proofing - Windows and doors
- LED lighting - Throughout the property
- Hot water cylinder jacket - If applicable
- Low-flow showerheads
Medium Investment
- Cavity wall insulation - Where possible
- Double glazing - Significant improvement
- Efficient boiler - Modern condensing boiler
- Smart thermostat - Better heating control
Higher Investment (Rating C and Above)
- Solar panels - Significant rating boost
- Heat pump - Air or ground source
- External wall insulation - For solid walls
- Underfloor heating - With efficient system
Grants and Funding
Several schemes may help with costs:
- ECO4 Scheme - For low-income tenants
- Boiler Upgrade Scheme - Heat pump grants
- Local authority schemes - Vary by region
How ManagementHub Helps
Track your EPC compliance across all properties:
- Certificate expiry reminders
- Document storage for EPC reports
- Compliance dashboard overview
- AI recommendations for improvements
Action Steps
- Check current EPC ratings for all properties
- Identify properties below E rating
- Get new EPC assessments if expired
- Plan improvement works if needed
- Consider future C rating requirements
*ManagementHub tracks all your property certificates including EPCs, with automatic expiry reminders.*
EPC
Energy Efficiency
Compliance
Regulations