EPCs are changing, but the question is, is your property ready? Here, we look at the proposed changes and how you can prepare.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulation changes for rental properties have been a source of contention for several years. While various deadlines have been announced but never confirmed, clarity over cost caps and exemptions has been scarce.
New research from the NRLA shows that energy efficiency (with its costs and challenges) is the biggest concern for landlords, even more so than the Renters’ Rights Bill. So, what is the future of EPCs?
In this blog, we look at:
· EPC changes over the last few years
· How EPC assessments are changing
· The 8 steps to boost your EPC rating at a low cost
· SortRefer’s simple EPC assessor
Look back, look forward
Despite the Conservatives' deadlines for changing EPC restrictions, we never received details on assessments, exemptions, or cost caps. Just before Rishi Sunak called for a general election, there had been talk of training assessors for a new system. However, this soon went quiet, and we haven't had much of an update since.
The current minimum EPC rating for rental properties is an E, but the Government plans to raise this standard to a C by 2030 for all tenancies, and 2028 for new tenancies.
How EPC assessments are changing
Along with the new deadlines, EPC assessments will change from RDSAP (reduced data standard assessment procedure) to SAP (standard assessment procedure).
The new assessment method, based on energy efficiency rather than the cost of powering a home, will likely be much more reliable and accurate for landlords.
Here is a comparison of how the new assessments will differ:
| Aspect of assessment | Current system | Proposed/future system |
| Assessment method | Based on SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) and theoretical performance | Moving towards real-world performance (actual usage, like smart meter data) |
| Main rating basis | Fuel cost and CO2 emissions | Likely based on energy use intensity (kWh/m2/year) |
| Rating format | A-G based on energy bills | A-G scale, but based on efficiency and carbon |
| Update frequency | Every 10 years or after major works | Likely to be more dynamic with live changes, updating automatically |
| Electric heating impact | Penalises EPC rating | May score better, especially with renewable systems like heat pumps |
| Data source | Visual inspection and homeowner input | Moving towards a greater use of linked databases, smart meters, and homeowner input |
| Landlord requirements | Minimum EPC E (currently) | Minimum EPC C by 2028 (under review) |
| Carbon emissions focus | Present but secondary focus | To be more of a focus, and could become a core metric |
| Digital access | Static PDG of gov.uk | Could move to interactive digital logbooks |
| Trustworthiness | Known for assumptions and guesswork | Aiming for more accurate, data-driven assessments |
The 8 steps to drive up EPC ratings at a low cost
To help you improve your EPC rating, here are some simple, affordable steps you can take.
1. Install LED Light Bulbs
· Cost: Very low (£1–£5 per bulb)
· Impact: Switching from halogen to LED bulbs can help improve the property’s lighting efficiency.
2. Draught Proofing
· Cost: £20–£100 depending on the size of the property
· Impact: Sealing gaps around doors, windows, chimneys, and floorboards reduces heat loss and improves efficiency.
3. Add/Improve Loft Insulation
· Cost: £100–£300
· Impact: Loft insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve energy efficiency, and it’s especially impactful if the property is previously under-insulated (this is typically less than 270mm of insulation).
4. Hot Water Tank Jacket
· Cost: £20
· Impact: Drastically reduces heat loss from uninsulated hot water cylinders.
5. Install Thermostatic Controls
· Cost: ~£100–£200 (however, smart thermostats can cost more)
· Impact: EPC reports note an improvement in heating control efficiency. Even radiator TRVs (thermostatic radiator valves) can help.
6. Pipe Insulation
· Cost: £5–£20
· Impact: It helps retain heat in hot water pipes, especially around boilers and airing cupboards. It's a small gain, but very cheap.
7. Service Your Boiler
· Cost: £50–£100
· Impact: While it won't change the boiler's official efficiency band, it can improve real-world performance and be noted in the EPC inspection if it was previously poorly performing.
8. Add Insulation Declarations
· Cost: Free (just admin work)
· Impact: If you've added insulation (walls, loft, etc.) but it's not reflected in your current EPC assessment, submit documentation to the assessor, as missing data will default to poor efficiency and bring down your property’s rating.
How to get started
If you’re looking to get a new EPC rating, we’ve partnered with SortRefer, an online portal providing landlords with EPC inspection quotes in under a minute.
The quotes compare costs from a panel of nationwide suppliers to help you find the best option for your property. Take a look at the quotes you could access here.
If your property needs more work to meet new energy-efficiency standards, funding options are available. These range from:
- A capital raise with a remortgage
- A further advance
- A second-charge mortgage
- Bridging finance
This legislative change, though positive for some landlords, may be stressful and, in some cases, expensive. Our experts are here to help you find the most affordable funding option for you, whether you’re ready to get started or looking to explore your choices.
Next Steps
To see how we can help. Call 0345 345 6788 or submit an enquiry here.
