If you’re a homeowner or landlord, you’ve probably heard of an EPC — but what exactly is it, why does it matter, and how could new legislation affect you in the future?
What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal document that shows how energy efficient a property is. It gives your home or rental property a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), along with recommendations on how to improve the rating.
EPCs are required whenever a property is built, sold, or rented in the UK, and they remain valid for 10 years.
Why is an EPC Important?
EPCs aren’t just a tick-box exercise — they have a real impact:
• Running costs: A better EPC rating means lower energy bills.
• Property value: Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers and tenants.
• Buyer appeal: Knowing that your gas, electric and water bills will be lower can be a real selling point for would be buyers.
• Compliance: Landlords must have a valid EPC before renting a property.
• Sustainability: Improving your EPC reduces your carbon footprint and future-proofs your home.
EPCs and Buy-to-Let Landlords: Upcoming Changes
The government has proposed that all new tenancies in rental properties in the UK will require an EPC rating of C or above in the future (currently expected around 2028, but dates are under review) to be compliant. Currently any property let out in the UK needs to have an EPC rating of E and above to be fit to be let out.
For landlords, this means:
• Properties with a rating of D or lower may not be legally rentable without improvements.
• Failing to comply could result in fines or restrictions on letting.
• Now is the time to plan upgrades rather than waiting until the last minute.
By investing in the EPC rating of your investment property now will ensure that you are compliant in the future if the prospective regulation changes come into effect. Rather then being caught last minute or facing a fine for non-compliance.
Are EPCs certificates compulsory?
Yes, for any property being sold or let in the UK they do need to have a valid EPC certificate. It doesn’t need to have a particular rating but does need to be valid. For properties being let in the UK the minimum rating required is an E to be compliant and fit for tenant use.
How Your EPC Affects Your Bills
A higher EPC rating usually means:
• Better insulation → Less heat lost, lower heating bills.
• Efficient heating systems → More warmth for less energy.
• Smarter lighting and appliances → Reduced electricity usage.
For the average UK household, improving your EPC rating can save £200–£600 per year on energy bills.
What EPC rating is best?
The higher the rating the more energy efficient the property. An A rating is the highest rating you can get, with a G being the lowest rated possible.
Quick Wins to Improve Your EPC Rating
Here are some cost-effective ways to boost your score:
1. Switch to LED bulbs – simple and affordable.
2. Loft insulation – keep the heat in and improve your rating quickly. Even just increasing the insulation by 100mm can improve the energy efficiency.
3. Upgrade your boiler or heating system – modern, energy-efficient models score higher, boilers such as combi boilers.
4. Double or triple glazing – reduces drafts and improves energy efficiency.
5. Smart meters & thermostats – helps manage usage effectively.
6. Wall insulation – cavity wall insulation can make a big difference.
Where to get an EPC certificate?
To put an EPC certificate in place you will need to have your property assessed by a qualified energy assessor. Many operate locally in your area so a quick google search will help you find one near you.
When is the best time to get an EPC certificate?
If you are intending to sell or let a property you will need a valid certificate in place, so best advice is to instruct an assessment before your property is being listed on the market. If you have completed a refurb on the property and modernised some of the appliances such as a new boiler, electrics and lights – this may have improved your rating. By re assessing your home for a new EPC rating could boost your EPC rating before listing your property for sale or rent.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to cut bills or a landlord preparing for future legislation, your EPC rating matters more than ever.
Taking steps now not only saves you money but also future proofs your property against changing regulations.
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