EPC explained
Straight answers from accredited domestic energy assessors. If your question isn't here, just get in touch.
No. The landlord is legally responsible for providing a valid EPC before marketing or letting the property.
Under the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2012, it's the landlord's duty (not the tenant's) to commission and pay for an EPC before a property is advertised to let. A valid EPC must also be given to the tenant on or before the start of the tenancy.
Almost every let or sold property needs one, with a small list of exemptions (listed buildings, places of worship, temporary structures, etc.).
If you're selling or letting a residential property in England or Wales, you almost certainly need an EPC. Notable exemptions include some listed and protected buildings where compliance would unacceptably alter character, holiday lets under four months a year, and standalone buildings under 50m².
No — EPCs aren't pass/fail. They give a rating from A (best) to G (worst).
An EPC measures energy efficiency and gives recommendations for improvement. However, since April 2020, landlords cannot let a property with an EPC below E (so F and G rated properties effectively can't be rented out without a valid exemption registered).
10 years from the date of issue.
EPCs are valid for 10 years. After that you need a fresh one for any new tenancy or sale. You can also get a new EPC sooner if you've made improvements and want a better rating to advertise.
Yes — usually significantly, especially when paired with good insulation.
Solar PV panels lower the property's modelled CO₂ emissions and energy cost, which directly improves the EPC score. The exact gain depends on system size, roof orientation and the rest of the building fabric — but most installations push a property up at least one band.
Not below E without a registered exemption. Tighter rules are expected this decade.
Since 1 April 2020, all let domestic properties in England and Wales must have an EPC rating of E or above (MEES regulations). Government has consulted on raising this to C for new tenancies as soon as 2028 — landlords with D and E rated stock should plan upgrades now.
Insulation, heating system efficiency, hot water and lighting — in that order, broadly.
The biggest single levers are usually loft and wall insulation, an A-rated condensing boiler or heat pump, low-energy lighting throughout, and renewable generation (solar PV/thermal). Window glazing, controls and meter type all play a part.
Yes — it's one of the cheapest and highest-impact improvements.
Topping up loft insulation to the current 270mm recommended depth typically lifts the EPC score by several points and pays back in fuel-bill savings within a few years. It's almost always the first recommendation we make on cold-roof properties.
Our assessors will talk through your property, the current rules and the cheapest way to lift your rating.
