Many property owners assume that an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) lasts for 10 years, no matter what changes are made to the building. However, if you’ve undertaken major renovations, relying on an outdated EPC can be a costly mistake—both legally and financially.

At EPCrate, we guide property owners through when and why a reassessment is necessary after significant property upgrades.

How Long Does an EPC Last?

By default, an EPC is valid for 10 years.
However, validity does not equate to relevance—especially after substantial changes to the building’s structure or services.

When Do You Need a New EPC After Renovations?

While not legally mandatory in all cases, a new EPC is strongly recommended (or required) when:

1. You Are Selling or Renting Post-Renovation

If you plan to sell or let the property, you must provide a valid EPC.

  • If your renovations impact the building’s energy efficiency (positively or negatively), a new EPC ensures accurate marketing and legal compliance.

2. You’ve Carried Out Energy Performance Upgrades

Upgrades that warrant a reassessment include:

  • Installing or upgrading insulation (walls, floors, roof)

  • Replacing windows and doors

  • Installing new heating systems (boilers, heat pumps)

  • Adding renewable energy sources (solar PV, solar thermal)

  • Air-tightness improvements (draught-proofing, blower door test results)

Without updating the EPC, these improvements won’t be reflected, potentially affecting property value, rental appeal, and compliance with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).

3. Major Structural Changes

  • Extensions that alter the heated floor area.

  • Conversions (e.g., loft conversions, garage conversions).

  • Significant internal layout alterations that affect heating zones or building fabric.

4. Compliance with Green Finance or Incentives

Some lenders and grant schemes require an up-to-date EPC post-renovation to qualify for:

  • Green mortgages

  • Retrofit grants or subsidies

  • Eco-loans and energy efficiency incentives

When Is a New EPC Not Mandatory After Renovation?

  • If the renovations are purely aesthetic (redecorating, minor repairs).

  • If no sale, rental, or marketing is taking place post-renovation.

  • If the changes do not materially affect the building’s energy performance.

That said, it is still beneficial to obtain a reassessment if improvements have been made that could uplift the EPC rating.

How Renovations Can Shift EPC Ratings

Renovations can either:

  • Significantly improve your EPC (e.g., a poorly insulated D-rated property moving up to a B after a deep retrofit).

  • Lower your EPC score if changes inadvertently reduce energy efficiency (e.g., removing internal insulation for space).

A reassessment ensures your EPC reflects the current state of the property, avoiding legal and market pitfalls.

EPC Reassessments & MEES Compliance (Landlords Beware)

Landlords must ensure their rental properties meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).

  • Properties must meet E rating or above.

  • Proposed updates will raise this to C rating by 2025/2028.

If renovations alter your property’s EPC status, a reassessment is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure lettability.
EPCrate can advise landlords on post-renovation compliance strategies.

Book a Post-Renovation EPC Reassessment with EPCrate

If you’ve recently completed renovations, ensure your property’s EPC is up to date and accurate.
Book a reassessment today or explore our pricing plans for properties undergoing refurbishment.

For personalised advice, contact EPCrate and we’ll guide you through the EPC reassessment process.