Tue 08 Sep 2026

EPC C Requirements for Landlords by 2030: What You Need to Know

 

In January 2026 the UK Government confirmed a major shift in Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for the private rented sector in England and Wales with the assessment system being fundamentally reformed.  From 1 October 2030, nearly all private rented homes will need to meet a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Band C to be legally let, unless an exemption applies.   

New assessment model

A fresh EPC methodology, called the Home Energy Model (HEM), is being introduced and will become the basis for future ratings from the second half of 2027.  The new metrics will consider more thermodynamic calculations and have four benchmarks rather than one rating - Fabric Performance, Heating System, Smart Readiness and Energy Cost. The new system will look at whether the building retains heat well and does not fluctuate significantly so areas such as insulation and good windows will assist this rating.  It will look at how efficient your heating system is. Gas boilers will fare poorly on this rating as they are not as efficient as heat source pumps for example.  Smart readiness will also be important with smart meters, thermostats and solar panels all contributing to a positive score.  Finally as with now, the annual energy cost will also be taken into consideration.

Exemptions

We will be happy to assist you with the exemptions process.  A number of exemptions will continue to be available under the new regime, including  a cost cap exemption, third-party consent exemption, negative impacts exemption and a solid wall insulation exemption and these take into account such things as tenant refusal to make changes, planning and listed buildings constraints and relative cost.  There will be a cost cap for improvements of £10,000.  This £10,000 can be spent anytime between now and 2030, therefore it is advisable to keep information on what you have done to improve the rating as well as receipts.  Splitting the cost over the next three or four years will make it easier to budget for.

Do I need to get a new EPC when the system changes?

EPCs obtained before 1st October 2029 will continue to follow the current methodology and remain valid for up to 10 years. 

If your property already has a C rating but the EPC is due to expire within the next few years, it might be worth considering getting a new assessment done prior to the changes that are coming. The new EPC metrics which are being phased in late 2027 will potentially change the rating that you currently hold.  This could work in your favour, or possibly against you of course.  If you have a new assessment done prior to the new metrics being phased in, you could be assured that you have 10 years grace  giving you time to assess what changes you may need to make when you next need to undertake an EPC.

If you think an assessment of your property would assist in getting your property to that C rating, please contact us and we will be able to point you in the direction of a trusted qualified EPC assessor.

Feel free to email us or call the office at Samuel & Son if you would like to discuss any rental issues. Lin and Mary will be more than willing to assist you.
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