New EPC Rules in 2025: What Landlords and Property Managers Must Know

As we move further into 2025, UK landlords and property managers are navigating a complex but essential area of regulation: Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). While recent changes have caused some confusion, staying compliant is still non-negotiable. In this guide, we break down the current EPC rules, what’s changed, and what landlords must do to ensure energy compliance.

A Quick Recap: EPC Rules So Far

Since 2008, all rented properties in England and Wales have required a valid EPC. In April 2018, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) came into effect, making it illegal to rent out homes with an EPC rating below Band E. By April 2020, these rules applied to all existing tenancies, not just new ones.

What's New in 2025?

Contrary to earlier proposals, the government scrapped plans to raise the minimum standard to EPC Band C by 2025 (for new tenancies) and 2028 (for all rentals) in September 2023. As of now:

• Band E remains the legal minimum.

• No new deadlines for Band C have been confirmed, though discussions are ongoing.

• Proposed fine increases (up to £30,000) were also dropped; penalties remain capped at £5,000.
  

EPC Compliance Checklist for Landlords in 2025

To legally rent your property, you must:

• Hold a valid EPC (issued within the last 10 years).

• Ensure the property’s rating is Band E or above.

• Register an exemption if your property qualifies (more below).
  

Tip: If your EPC is F or G, you must upgrade within 3 months to continue renting.

Common EPC Upgrades & Their Impact

Improvement	Avg. Cost	+10–20 pts
Loft/Cavity Wall Insulation	£500–£1,500	+10–20 pts
Smart Thermostat	£150–£300	+5–10 pts
Solar Panels	£4,000–£8,000	+15–30 pts
Heat Pumps (with grant)	£7,000–£13,000	+20–40 pts

Use schemes like the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme and Great British Insulation Scheme to offset costs.

Who Is Exempt From EPC Requirements?

Some properties do not need an EPC, such as:

• Listed buildings where improvements would alter historic features

• Temporary buildings (used under 2 years)

• Places of worship

• Small properties (under 50m² not part of a larger dwelling)

• Buildings scheduled for demolition

Remember: You must register all exemptions on the PRS Exemptions Register, and they’re valid for 5 years.

What Happens if You Don’t Comply?

Legal Penalties:

• £5,000 fine per non-compliant property

• £200 for failing to display EPC info in rental ads

• Invalid evictions (you can’t serve a Section 21 notice without a valid EPC)

Other Risks:

• Mortgage rejection from lenders

• Insurance issues

• Complaints to Trading Standards

How Long Is an EPC Valid?

• 10 years from the issue date

• You only need to renew if you sell, start a new tenancy, or the certificate has expired

Scotland requires renewal every 10 years, regardless of tenancy status.

EPC Differences Across the UK: What Landlords Must Know

While EPC rules are largely similar across England, Wales, and Scotland, there are some important regional differences landlords need to be aware of—especially if managing properties across borders.

England

• Minimum EPC Rating: Band E

• Renewal Frequency: Only required when you sell or begin a new tenancy

• Ad Display Requirement: Legally required to include the EPC rating in all property listings (online and print)

Important Note: Although the proposed Band C deadline has been scrapped, landlords in England should still aim to improve ratings to avoid future compliance issues and attract energy-conscious tenants.

Wales

• Minimum EPC Rating: Band E

• Renewal Frequency: Like England, EPCs must be renewed only when triggered by a sale or new tenancy

• Ad Display Requirement: Display is recommended, but not strictly enforced

Key Insight: Some rural Welsh properties may qualify for exemptions due to structural limitations. Always check with local authorities or planning departments.

Scotland

• Minimum EPC Rating: Band E

• Renewal Frequency: Mandatory renewal every 10 years, regardless of tenancy changes

Ad Display Requirement: Compulsory—EPC ratings must be displayed in all property advertisements

Future Plans: Scotland is currently consulting on making EPC Band C the minimum by 2028. If implemented, this would make Scottish standards significantly stricter than the rest of the UK. Landlords with properties in Scotland should start planning upgrades now to avoid future penalties.

Why This Matters: If you're a landlord or property manager operating in multiple UK regions, understanding these nuances is critical to staying compliant. EPC regulations may seem similar on the surface, but regional enforcement and upcoming changes—especially in Scotland—can impact your legal obligations and property investments.

Need help staying compliant across borders? Flagship Fire & Maintenance can help you coordinate property safety and EPC requirements, no matter where your portfolio lies.

How Flagship Fire & Maintenance Can Help

While we’re best known for our Fire Risk Assessments, Fire Door Inspections, and Property Safety Compliance, Flagship also supports landlords in energy-related compliance.

Need an EPC Check or Update? We can help arrange assessments with our trusted partner network.

Want to boost your EPC rating? Let us advise on cost-effective upgrades and grant options.

Managing an HMO? Combine fire and energy compliance in one efficient visit.