Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a legal requirement across England and Wales whenever a property is sold, rented, or constructed. Both landlords and tenants have responsibilities, and understanding these rules helps avoid fines, lease delays, and compliance issues — especially under the stricter Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) now being enforced more actively.

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What is an EPC?

An EPC measures how energy-efficient a building is, giving it a rating from A (very efficient) to G (very inefficient).
The certificate also shows:

  • Estimated energy running costs

  • Carbon emissions

  • Recommended improvements

  • Potential future rating

An EPC is valid for 10 years unless major building changes occur.

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Landlord Responsibilities

1. You Must Have an EPC Before Marketing

Landlords must obtain a valid EPC before advertising a property for rent.

This applies to:

  • Houses

  • Flats

  • HMOs

  • Commercial units

  • Shops, offices, and warehouses

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2. Minimum Rating Requirement (MEES Law)

Under MEES regulations:

A property must be rated E or above to be legally rented.

If a building is rated F or G, it cannot be leased unless:

  • Improvements are completed, OR

  • An official exemption is registered

3. Provide the EPC to Tenants

The landlord must supply a copy of the EPC:

  • At the start of tenancy

  • When requested by the tenant

  • During lease renewal

4. Display EPC in Commercial Premises

For commercial buildings frequently visited by the public, the EPC must be clearly visible inside the premises.

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Local authorities can issue significant fines:

Residential properties – Up to £5,000
Commercial properties – Up to £150,000 (depending on rateable value)

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Tenant Responsibilities

1. Right to Request the Certificate

Tenants can legally request a copy of the EPC at any time.
A landlord must provide it within a reasonable period.

2. Commercial Tenants Must Cooperate

Business tenants must allow access for:

  • Energy inspections

  • Improvement works required for compliance

  • Re-assessment visits

3. Alterations Affecting EPC

If a commercial tenant alters the building (lighting, partitions, HVAC), the landlord may require a new EPC at lease end.

Exemptions Landlords Can Register

Some properties cannot reach an E rating despite improvements.

Common exemptions include:

  • All improvements made but rating still below E

  • Listed buildings (certain cases)

  • Structural limitations

  • Tenant refusal of improvement works

  • Cost cap reached

Exemptions typically last 5 years and must be renewed.

When a New EPC is Required

You need a new certificate if:

  • The previous EPC expired (10 years)

  • Major renovations occurred

  • Property layout changed

  • Heating system replaced

  • Property converted into flats

  • Commercial property subdivided

Quick Compliance Checklist

Landlords must:
✔ Obtain EPC before marketing
✔ Meet minimum E rating
✔ Provide certificate to tenants
✔ Register exemptions if needed
✔ Renew every 10 years

Tenants must:
✔ Accept inspection access
✔ Not block compliance upgrades
✔ Follow green lease clauses

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Final Thoughts

EPC rules now affect both residential and commercial property more than ever.
For landlords, compliance is mandatory to legally rent a property.
For tenants, understanding EPC rights ensures protection from illegal lettings and unexpected costs.

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EPCRate London

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