Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
A valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is required when letting a property in England and Wales. The certificate rates the property’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
Amanda flags this topic for awareness. Amanda does not verify or manage individual landlord obligations.
Legislation
The requirement comes from the Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 and the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) Regulations 2015.
What is required
- A valid EPC must be obtained before marketing a property to let
- EPCs are valid for 10 years from the date of issue
- The EPC must be made available to prospective tenants free of charge
- An EPC must be commissioned from an accredited domestic energy assessor
Minimum energy efficiency standard
Since April 2020, rental properties in England and Wales must meet a minimum EPC rating of E. Properties rated F or G cannot legally be let unless a valid exemption has been registered.
- The MEES requirement applies to both new and existing tenancies
- Exemptions are available in limited circumstances and must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register
- Exemptions last a maximum of 5 years
Penalties
Letting a property that does not meet the minimum energy efficiency standard can result in fines of up to £5,000. Penalties are imposed by the local authority and vary based on the length of the breach.
What Amanda helps you understand
- That a valid EPC is required for rental properties
- The minimum energy efficiency standard that applies
- Why this was flagged (you own and rent out UK property)
Amanda does not track EPC expiry dates or energy ratings. For your property’s current EPC, check the EPC register.
Official source
Energy Performance Certificates — GOV.UK