What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement within the UK for all properties which are sold, rented. They give the property an 'energy efficiency rating' based on a scale of 'A' to 'G' with 'A' being the highest. Once issued, EPC's are valid for 10 years although they can only be produced by accredited Domestic Energy Assessors.
How is an EPC rating calculated?
Many factors are involved when an EPC rating is being calculated. These include a properties insulation, heating system, and lighting. In some instances factors may include boiler or heat pump model, the presence of solar panels or other low/zero carbon appliances. The assessment must be carried out by someone who is qualified and accredited to do so.
What is the average EPC rating of a property in the UK?
According to the Office of National Statistics, the median energy efficiency score was 68 in England and 66 in Wales for all records up to March 2023, which are equivalent to band D. This means that there is significant room for improvement to improve the energy efficiency of a property.
What is the minimum EPC rating required by landlords to rent a property out to tenants?
In order to comply with the 2018 ‘Minimum Level of Energy Efficiency’ standard, the minimum EPC rating is E.
Since 1 April 2020, landlords can no longer let or continue to let properties covered by the MEES Regulations if they have an EPC rating below E, unless they have a valid exemption in place.
If you are currently planning to let a property with an EPC rating of F or G, you need to improve the property’s rating to E, or register an exemption, before you enter into a new tenancy.
If you are currently letting a property with an EPC rating of F or G, and you haven’t already taken action, you must improve the property’s rating to E immediately, or register an exemption.
If your property is currently empty, and you are not planning to let it, you don’t need to take any action to improve its rating until you decide to let it again.
Is an EPC needed when selling a property?
You must order an EPC for potential buyers before you market your property to sell. Whether you choose to market your property through an estate agent or independently, once the advertisement for your property is live, it is required to show the properties EPC grading or be at risk of a £200 fine per listing/advertisement.
