July 1, 2026

EPC requirements for landlords in 2026

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are essential for landlords in the UK. You are legally required to provide an up-to-date EPC with every rental. If you fail to give it to the tenant, you could face fines. If you don’t have one at all, you cannot rent the property in the first place.

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Here is what landlords need to know about EPCs in 2026.

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What is an EPC?

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An EPC shows the energy efficiency of the dwelling. It also shows the potential energy efficiency if changes were made in the future. It is designed to show the occupant how energy efficient their home is – the more efficient, the lower the bills in theory.

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That means an EPC serves a vital purpose for landlords. It can make your home look more appealing to tenants if they know bills are going to be lower.

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What are the minimum EPC ratings?

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Landlords must ensure their property meets the minimum EPC rating requirements in order to legally let it out. This is known as the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) and applies to almost all domestic rental properties.

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At present, your property needs to achieve at least an ‘E’ rating to be a legally rentable property. In the future, that rating may change so make sure you check before starting a new tenancy. If your property does not reach the minimum rating, you will need to undertake works to bring it up to standard before you can let it.

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What type of work might be required?

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If your property does not meet these requirements, potential works could include:

Insulating the loft
Installing more thermally efficient windows
Upgrading roof insulation
Installing a more efficient heating system

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Your needs will be determined by the individual property, but landlords should be prepared for some additional costs if you are trying to rent out a non-compliant property. Those costs are limited to a cap of £3,500 (including VAT).

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The government guidance says: “If you cannot improve your property to EPC E for £3,500 or less, you should make all the improvements which can be made up to that amount, then register an ‘all improvements made’ exemption.”

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What will the rules be in the future?

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The EPC regulations are tightening and requirements will increase. By 2030:

The minimum EPC rating grows to a C (unless you have an exemption)
The cost cap increases to £10,000 (unless that is 10% or more of the total property value)

These requirements will apply to all privately rented homes from April 2030 onwards. That means landlords have plenty of time to make the necessary changes – and those who make them sooner are likely to benefit more.

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Renters are likely to pay higher rents for a more efficient home. If you can afford to upgrade your property now, you will have more than three years of potentially earning higher rents. On the other side of it, the longer you leave it, the more expensive they are likely to be. If you go right up to the 2030 deadline, you will pay a premium.

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How can landlords be sure they are compliant with EPC regulations?

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The easiest way to make sure you comply with landlord legislation – including EPC legislation – is to appoint a professional lettings and property management agent. They are up to date with all requirements and know exactly what to do. They will take care of everything so you don’t have to worry.

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It’s the hassle-free option that most landlords use to make the most of their profits and minimise their workload and worries at the same time. Want to learn more? Contact our team today to discover how we can help you!

Arrange a call with our team today.

Contact us today regarding all property management and lettings enquires.

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contact@northbankresidential.com

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