EPC
EPCs for landlords
You need a valid Energy Performance Certificate, rated E or above, before you can let your property. We’ll arrange yours with an accredited assessor.
£150 including VAT
Energy Performance Certificates
What is an EPC?
An EPC rates how energy efficient a property is, from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It also includes recommendations, such as better insulation or a more efficient boiler, that could lower running costs and improve the rating.
For landlords, the rating matters more than for anyone else: a property rated F or G can’t legally be let, unless an exemption applies.
For landlords
The rules for rental properties
Rated E or above
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, a rental property must be rated E or better, for new and existing tenancies.
Before you advertise
You need a valid EPC before the property is marketed, and the rating must be shown in adverts.
A copy for your tenant
Your tenant must be given a copy of the EPC before the tenancy starts.
Fines up to £5,000
Letting a property that doesn’t meet the minimum standard can lead to a fine from the local council.
How it works
Your EPC in three simple steps
We handle everything, from booking the assessor to sending you the certificate.
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1
Book with us
Call us or use the form below. We’ll arrange an accredited energy assessor at a time that suits you, or your tenant if the property is occupied.
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2
The assessment
The assessor visits the property, usually for about 30 to 60 minutes, and looks at its insulation, windows, heating and lighting.
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3
Your certificate
Your EPC is added to the national register and we send you a copy. If we’re letting the property, we’ll add it to the listing and give your tenant their copy.
On the day
What the assessor looks at
- Loft, wall and floor insulation
- Windows and glazing
- Boiler, heating and hot water
- Heating controls, such as thermostats and timers
- Lighting
- Solar panels, heat pumps or other renewables
How to prepare
- Make sure the loft, boiler and meters are easy to reach
- Have paperwork ready for any upgrades, such as insulation guarantees, boiler certificates or window installation certificates
- Let us know about any work done since your last EPC
- If the property is tenanted, we’ll arrange access with your tenant
Improve your rating
Ways to lift your rating
Improvements can help you meet the rules, lower your tenants’ bills and make your property more appealing to let.
- LED lightingSwap old bulbs for low-energy LEDs throughout.
- Loft insulationTop up thin or missing loft insulation.
- Draught-proofingSeal gaps around doors, windows and floorboards.
- Heating controlsA room thermostat, timer and radiator valves.
- A newer boilerAn efficient condensing boiler can make a big difference.
- Wall insulationCavity or solid wall insulation, where suitable.
Looking ahead
Higher standards are coming
The government plans to raise the minimum rating for rental properties to C by 2030. If your property is rated D or below, it’s worth planning improvements now.
We’ll keep our landlords updated as the rules are confirmed.
What our clients say
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EPC FAQs
Your questions answered
What’s the minimum EPC rating to let a property?
E. Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, you can’t grant a new tenancy, or continue an existing one, if the property is rated F or G, unless a valid exemption is registered.
What if my property is rated F or G?
You’ll need to make improvements to reach E before letting it. In some cases, such as when the cost of improvements would go over a set cap, you can register an exemption on the government’s PRS Exemptions Register. We can talk you through your options.
How long does an EPC last?
An EPC is valid for 10 years from the date it was issued, and you can reuse it for new tenancies within that time.
My EPC has expired during a tenancy. Do I need a new one?
You don’t usually need to renew it while the same tenancy continues. You’ll need a valid EPC before you market the property again or a new tenancy starts.
How can I check if I already have one?
Search for the address on the government’s Find an energy certificate service. If there’s a valid EPC from the last 10 years, you may not need a new one.
How much does an EPC cost?
Our EPC service is £150 including VAT. That covers arranging the accredited assessor, the visit and your certificate.
Can the assessment happen while tenants live there?
Yes. We’ll agree a convenient time with your tenant and give them proper notice before the visit.
Who can carry out an EPC?
Only an accredited domestic energy assessor can produce an EPC. We arrange this for you, so you don’t need to find one yourself.
Book your EPC
Arrange your EPC with us
Fill in the form, choosing “Looking to Let”, and mention your EPC. We’ll be in touch to arrange a time. Prefer to talk? Give our lettings team a call.