Yes — in most cases, you do need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to rent out a property in the UK. EPCs are a legal requirement for landlords and must be in place before a property is advertised or let to tenants.
This guide explains when an EPC is required, what rating landlords must meet, the penalties for non-compliance, and any exemptions you should know about.
What Is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy-efficient a property is, rated from:
- A (most efficient)
- G (least efficient)
It also includes recommendations on how to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy bills.
An EPC is valid for 10 years.
Do You Need an EPC to Rent a Property?
Yes. If you are a landlord renting out a property in England or Wales, you are legally required to have a valid EPC.
You must:
- Have an EPC before marketing the property
- Provide a copy to tenants
- Ensure the EPC meets minimum energy efficiency standards
Failing to do so can result in fines and enforcement action..
Landlords must also complete a 5-year electrical safety inspection (EICR).
When Do Landlords Need an EPC?
You need an EPC if you are:
- Renting out a house or flat
- Advertising a property for rent
- Granting a new tenancy
- Renewing or re-letting a property
An EPC must be available at the point of marketing, not after a tenant has moved in.
Landlords must also comply with carbon monoxide alarm legal requirements and obtain a valid gas safety certificate.
Minimum EPC Rating for Rental Properties
ILandlords must comply with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
Required EPC Rating
| EPC Rating | Can the Property Be Rented? |
|---|---|
| A – E | Yes |
| F – G | No (unless exempt) |
Properties rated F or G cannot legally be rented out unless the landlord has registered a valid exemption.
What Happens If You Rent Without an EPC?
Renting a property without a valid EPC can lead to:
- Fines of up to £5,000 per property
- Enforcement notices from the local authority
- Estate agents refusing to market the property
- Problems with landlord insurance
- Legal issues if disputes arise
- Difficulty serving a Section 21 eviction notice
Penalties are usually issued per breach, so landlords with multiple properties face higher risk.
EPC Requirements for New vs Existing Tenancies
| Situation | Is an EPC Required? |
|---|---|
| New tenancy | Yes |
| Renewing a tenancy | Yes |
| Existing tenancy (no change) | Usually no, unless re-letting |
| Advertising property | Yes |
If an EPC expires during a tenancy, it usually does not affect the current tenant — but a new EPC is required before re-letting.
Are There Any EPC Exemptions?
Yes. Some properties are exempt from EPC requirements.
Common EPC Exemptions
| Exemption Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Listed buildings | Where improvements would alter character |
| Temporary buildings | Intended use under 2 years |
| Small detached buildings | Under 50 m² floor area |
| Places of worship | Used for religious purposes |
| Buildings due for demolition | Evidence required |
Even if exempt, landlords may need to register the exemption and provide proof if challenged.
Do Tenants Have the Right to See the EPC?
Yes. Tenants are entitled to:
- See the EPC before moving in
- Receive a copy when requested
Failure to provide this can result in complaints to the local authority.
How to Get an EPC for a Rental Property
Getting an EPC is straightforward:
- Book an accredited energy assessor
- Property inspection carried out (30–60 minutes)
- EPC issued and added to the national register
- Certificate valid for 10 years
Most EPCs are issued within a few days.
What If the EPC Rating Is Too Low?
If your rental property has an F or G rating, you may need to:
- Improve insulation
- Upgrade heating systems
- Install energy-efficient lighting
If improvements are not possible or exceed cost limits, you may be able to register an exemption.
Who Is Responsible for Getting an EPC?
The landlord is responsible for:
- Arranging the EPC
- Paying for the EPC
- Ensuring it remains valid
Tenants are not responsible for EPC costs or renewals.
How Long Does an EPC Last for Rental Properties?
An EPC lasts for 10 years from the date it is issued.
You do not need a new EPC for every new tenant as long as:
- The existing EPC is still valid
- The property meets the minimum EPC rating requirements
Once the EPC expires, a new one must be obtained before the property is re-let.
How Much Does an EPC Cost for Rental Properties?
Typical EPC costs in the UK are:
- Flats: £60–£90
- Houses: £70–£120
- Large or complex properties: £120–£150+
An EPC assessment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, and the certificate is typically issued within 24 to 48 hours.
You can check typical EICR costs here.
Can You Use an Existing EPC When Renting?
Yes. You can use an existing EPC if:
- It is still within the 10-year validity period
- It meets the minimum EPC rating for rental properties
You can check whether an EPC already exists by searching the government EPC register using the property address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do landlords legally need an EPC to rent a property?
Yes. In England and Wales, landlords are legally required to have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before renting out or advertising a property, unless a valid exemption applies.
What EPC rating is required to rent out a property?
Most rental properties must have an EPC rating of E or above to comply with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). Properties rated F or G cannot usually be rented unless exempt.
Can you rent out a property without an EPC?
No. Renting out a property without a valid EPC can result in fines, enforcement action from the local authority, and problems with estate agents, insurance, and tenancy agreements.
Is an EPC required for existing tenants?
An EPC is required before a property is first rented or re-let. If an EPC expires during an existing tenancy, it usually does not affect the current tenant but must be renewed before re-letting.
Are there any exemptions from needing an EPC?
Yes. Some properties are exempt, including listed buildings where improvements would alter their character, small detached buildings under 50 m², temporary buildings, and places of worship.
How long does an EPC last for rental properties?
An EPC is valid for 10 years. Landlords must ensure it is still valid when advertising or re-letting the property.
Summary
In most cases, you do need an EPC to rent a property in the UK.
Key points to remember:
- An EPC is required before marketing a rental property
- Most rental properties must have a minimum EPC rating of E
- EPCs last for 10 years
- Renting without a valid EPC can result in fines
Ensuring your property has a valid EPC helps you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and rent your property legally.