EPC Rules Update: What Landlords Need to Know for 2025 and Beyond
The UK government’s approach to energy efficiency in rental properties is evolving. The UK’s original plan to enforce EPC C ratings by 2025 was scrapped, but a new deadline is on the horizon: 2030. At Halle, we’re here to help landlords understand what’s changed, what hasn’t, and how to prepare for the road ahead.
What Are EPC Ratings and Why Do They Matter?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) measures a property’s energy efficiency, rated from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It also includes recommendations for improvements and the potential rating a property could achieve. EPCs are legally required when a property is built, sold, rented, or significantly altered, and they remain valid for 10 years.
For landlords, EPCs are more than just paperwork—they’re a legal requirement and a key part of maintaining a compliant and marketable property.
Current Legal Requirements
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), landlords must ensure their properties meet a minimum EPC rating of E. These rules have been introduced in phases:
- April 2018: New leases for properties rated F or G became illegal without a valid exemption.
- April 2020: This rule extended to all existing residential tenancies.
- April 2023: The same applied to all existing commercial leases.
As of now, all rental properties—residential and commercial—must have an EPC rating of at least E to be legally let.
What’s Changing in 2025 and Beyond
Although the 2025 deadline for EPC C compliance has been dropped, the government has proposed a new target: all rental properties must reach EPC C by 2030. This gives landlords more time, but the pressure to plan and budget for energy improvements remains.
At Halle, we believe this is an opportunity to future-proof your portfolio. Improving energy efficiency not only ensures compliance but can also reduce tenant turnover, lower utility costs, and increase property value.
How to Prepare
We recommend landlords take the following steps:
- Review your current EPC ratings and identify properties below a C rating.
- Schedule an updated EPC assessment if your certificate is nearing expiry.
- Plan energy efficiency upgrades such as insulation, double glazing, or efficient heating systems.
- Budget for improvements gradually to avoid last-minute costs.
- Check for available grants or funding to support energy upgrades.
- Keep tenants informed about planned works and how they’ll benefit.
Final Thoughts
While the timeline has shifted, the direction of travel is clear: energy efficiency is becoming central to property compliance and tenant expectations. At Halle, we’re here to help you stay ahead—offering expert advice, tailored property strategies, and support with EPC assessments and upgrade planning.
If you’d like help reviewing your EPCs or creating a compliance roadmap, get in touch with the Halle team today.