As a landlord, understanding Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) is essential for legal compliance and maximising your rental income. This guide covers everything landlords need to know about EPCs in 2025 and beyond.
What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates your rental property's energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It includes:
- Your property's current energy rating
- Its potential rating after improvements
- Estimated energy costs for tenants
- Recommended improvements
For a general overview of EPCs suitable for all property owners, see our main guide: What is an EPC?.
Why EPCs Matter for Landlords
Legal Requirements
Since April 2020, landlords in England and Wales must ensure their rental properties have a minimum EPC rating of Band E before granting a new tenancy or renewing an existing one. Letting a property with an F or G rating can result in fines up to £5,000.
For full details on current and upcoming requirements, read our comprehensive guide: EPC Requirements for Landlords 2025-2030.
The 2030 Deadline
The government has proposed raising the minimum standard to Band C by 2030. While the exact timeline remains subject to consultation, landlords should start planning improvements now to avoid:
- Last-minute rush for assessors and tradespeople
- Higher costs as demand increases
- Potential rental voids if non-compliant
Impact on Rental Value
Properties with better EPC ratings are increasingly attractive to tenants who want lower energy bills. A good rating can:
- Justify higher rent
- Reduce void periods
- Attract quality tenants
- Future-proof your investment
How to Check Your Property's EPC
You can check your rental property's current EPC by:
- Using our postcode search - Enter your postcode on our homepage to see your property's rating and personalised improvement recommendations
- The official EPC Register - Search by postcode or certificate number
Improving Your Rental Property's EPC
Common cost-effective improvements for landlords include:
- LED lighting - Quick, low-cost improvement
- Loft insulation - Often eligible for grants
- Boiler upgrade - See our new boiler cost guide
- Draught proofing - Inexpensive DIY option
- Cavity wall insulation - Good ROI if property has unfilled cavities
For a complete list of options, see 27 Ways to Improve Your EPC Rating.
EPC Exemptions for Landlords
In some cases, landlords can apply for an exemption from minimum EPC requirements:
- Cost cap exemption - When improvements would cost more than £3,500
- Consent exemption - When tenants or freeholders refuse consent
- Devaluation exemption - When improvements would reduce property value by 5%+
- Listed building exemption - When changes would unacceptably alter the building
Exemptions last for 5 years and must be registered. Learn more: EPC Exemptions for Landlords Explained.
Getting a New EPC
If your current EPC is expired (over 10 years old) or you've made improvements, you'll need a new assessment. EPCs typically cost £60-120 and take 45-60 minutes.
For step-by-step instructions, see How to Find, Check and Download Your EPC.
Next Steps
- Check your current rating - Use our EPC checker to see where you stand
- Understand your obligations - Read our landlord requirements guide
- Plan improvements - Review our improvement options
- Check for exemptions - See if you qualify for an exemption